Arctic Monkeys were the big winners at last nights Brit Awards winning both best group and best album for the third time.

Despite making their disdain for the awards overtly clear in the past, the Sheffield band opened the event at London’s O2 Arena. Ellie Goulding won best British female, while pop act One Direction were honoured for their global success for the second year running.

David Bowie cemented his musical comeback by winning British Male Solo Artist. Kate Moss collected Bowie’s prize and read a speech on his behalf urging Scottish voters to reject independence.

“I’m completely delighted to have a Brit for being the best male – but I am, aren’t I Kate? Yes. I think it’s a great way to end the day. Thank you very, very much and Scotland stay with us,” were his words – as delivered by Moss.

Whilst presenting the live ITV show for the final time James Corden kissed Radio 1 DJ Nick Grimshaw and called people with double-barrelled surnames “horse-faced inbreds” as he went “off the leash” to whip up some spontaneous fun.

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The combined US star wattage of Beyoncé, Katy Perry, Pharrell Williams and Bruno Mars was imported from the Grammys to add lustre to the live performances.

Overnight figures show an average 4.2 million viewers watched the ceremony live on ITV – the lowest audience since at least 1999.

Last year’s show was watched by 6.5 million viewers.

Have televised award shows had their day?

See the full list of winners below

British Male Solo Artist – David Bowie

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British Female Solo Artist – Ellie Goulding

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British Group – Arctic Monkeys

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British Breakthrough Act – Bastille

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British Single – “Waiting All Night” by Rudimental ft. Ella Eyre

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British Album Of The Year – AM by Arctic Monkeys

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Best Video – One Direction

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International Male Solo Artist – Bruno Mars

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International Female Solo Artist – Lorde

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International Group – Daft Punk

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Global Success – One Direction

Critics’ Choice – Sam Smith

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British Producer Of The Year – Flood & Alan Moulder