Esther McVey and Tom O'Connor hosted the ceremony

Sun newspaper readers and a board of directors once again chose Del Boy and friends as their favourite comedy.

Coronation Street's John Savident won best comedy performer for his portrayal of butcher Fred Elliot, while talk show host James Whale won best radio personality.

The best television drama award went to ITV's long-running police show The Bill.

Only Fools and Horses picked up another award, this time for John Sullivan in the television writers category.

Ken Dodd OBE was awarded best stand up comedian at the London dinner hosted by Esther McVey and Tom O'Connor.

New talent

Radio honours went to Radio 4's Dead Ringers, the impressionist show that propelled Alistair McGowan, Jon Culshaw and Jan Raven into the limelight, for best radio comedy show.

New talent Dave Cohen received The Wally Malston Young writers award.

Cohen's credits include radio shows Dead Ringers and Sunday Format as well as writing for comics such as Rory Bremner.

A Comic Heritage Gold Award was presented to the satirical quiz show I'm Sorry I Haven't A Clue, which features stars such as Paul Merton, Stephen Fry and Sandy Toksvig.

The Heritage Foundation Gold Award went to Pete Murray OBE to acknowledge his part in introducing rock'n' roll music to radio and television.