Take That sealed their comeback with a win at the Brits - while their old bandmate Robbie Williams remained thousands of miles away in rehab.

The Arctic Monkeys were the biggest British prize-winners with a double gong for British Album of the Year, for their debut Whatever People Say I am, That's What I'm Not, and British Group.

Reformed boy-band Take That showed they had lost none of their magic by winning Best Single for comeback track Patience, voted for by the public.

Meanwhile, Williams lost out on the Live Act award - but his presence was felt as the pop elite lined up to send him goodwill messages.

Hellraising jazz singer Amy Winehouse, 23, was the female star of the ceremony, in London's Earl's Court, winning British Female Solo Artist.

Lily Allen won none of the three awards she was nominated for, despite her rapid rise from near-obscurity.

James Morrison, a former busker who got a U in his music A-Level, won best British Male.

Oasis were honoured with an Outstanding Contribution to Music award.

Noel said: "It's been a f***ing pleasure."

In typical rebellious style, Liam said of the award: "Is that all it is? I suppose it will have to do."