British director Mike Leigh has won the top prize at the San Sebastian Film Festival in Spain for his latest work, "Tender Loving Care," a social drama focusing on the experiences of social workers aiding vulnerable individuals. The film, which is expected to be Leigh’s final feature due to his health, received the festival’s Golden Shell award for best film.

Leigh, 83, was unable to attend the ceremony but delivered a video acceptance speech in which he expressed gratitude and regret at not being present. He has previously disclosed that he is living with a muscle-affecting medical condition and indicated that "Tender Loving Care" would likely be his last film.

The filmmaker has a history of critical acclaim, having previously secured the top honor at the Cannes Film Festival in 1996 for "Secrets and Lies" and at the Venice Film Festival in 2004 for "Vera Drake."

At San Sebastian, "Tender Loving Care" also shared the award for best screenplay. Additionally, actress Kate O’Flynn, who stars in the film, received a Silver Shell for best performance. The festival’s best director accolade went to Swedish filmmaker Amanda Kernell for her work on "Brace Your Heart."