Chris Evans recently returned to TV and radio presenting

Evans, who hosted the event in 1995 and 1996 before returning for 2005, will front the show at Earls Court, London, on 15 February.

"I'm absolutely thrilled, it's my fourth time, so I should be getting good at it now," he said.

Nominees for the awards will be revealed on 10 January.

The Magic Numbers and KT Tunstall will perform at the shortlist announcement, which is being held at the Riverside Studios in Hammersmith, west London.

The awards night itself will be transmitted the following evening on ITV1, with the broadcast extended to two-and-a-half hours.

The Brits are awarded by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI), the body representing the UK's record companies.

BPI chairman Peter Jamieson said: "We're delighted to have Chris back. His genuine love of music and special brand of humour make him an ideal choice to present the Brits."

Of the 16 award categories, nine are voted for by an academy of 1,000 members from the music, media and broadcasting industries, while six are chosen by public vote.