Little Britain big winner

Little Britain Duo as Florence (Matt Lucas) and Emily (David Walliams).

Quirky sketch show Little Britain beat off the latest venture from Ricky Gervais to take the top honour at this year's British Comedy Awards.

The BBC show, the creation of Matt Lucasand David Walliams, was named the Best TV Comedy ahead of The Thick Of It and Gervais' Extras, his follow-up to the hugely successful The Office.

Victoria Wood and Julie Walters were also honoured for their outstanding contribution to comedy over 25 years.