Lawrence takes his message to Eton

He addressed the Windsor school's newly formed Entrepreneurship Society, a group of 14-18 year-old students keen to make their mark on business.

Eton has produced 20 UK prime ministers and is regarded as the epitome of a privileged start in life. Mr Tomlinson was born in Batley and attended his local grammar school before building a business empire worth 400m, with companies including Ginetta Cars, Ideal Care Homes and LNT Construction.

The 46-year-old Yorkshireman said: "I was thrilled to get the invitation from Eton – and more than a little surprised.

"I couldn't have been more impressed with the school, its facilities and its pupils who were incredibly hospitable – even taking me out for a curry.

"It's always a delight to talk to young people who want to push the boundaries of business and I hope by sharing my experiences I can inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.

"I hope I have proved that there is more to success in business than simply making money."

Alex Richardson, of the Entrepreneurship Society, said: "Mr Tomlinson's passion for business and for the people he works with was in evidence throughout his totally absorbing, entertaining and well-paced presentation.

"There were some extremely knowledgeable motor sport fans in the audience and it was a pleasure to spend a few hours in the company of an entrepreneur whose philanthropic principles shone through.

"He's left us with a lot to think about."