A Suzuki outlet has bounced back from administration to scoop the carmaker's UK dealer of the year award.

Leighton Car Company was formed in November 2007 by Philip Haupt from the ashes of his three-site Suzuki group, Braylake.

Having bought the Leighton Buzzard dealership back from administrators, Haupt restructured it and registered one of the strongest sales performances in the network.

At Suzuki GB's dealer conference in Birmingham last month, Haupt was presented with a trophy for 2008 national dealer of the year.

David Seward, Suzuki GB's sales and marketing director, said: “The accolade reflects the hard work and dedication of the Leighton Car Company during the past 12 months, who was instrumental in significantly increasing the profitability of the site.

"It has set an example of what can be achieved despite a notable decline in the sector.”

Haupt had previously won the accolade with Braylake.