Brand has become known for his sharp sense of humour

The comedian's popularity has risen since fronting shows such as Russell Brand's Got Issues and Big Brother's Big Mouth on E4.

Charlotte Church won favourite TV personality following the launch of her new Friday night Channel 4 show.

Royle Family star Ricky Tomlinson, who won the Laftas Legend award, said: "I think it's lovely and I'm made up."

He added: "I'm quite a sex symbol as you know."

Reader vote

Speaking about last year's winner, Tomlinson said: "I feel very flattered actually to be in the same category as Bruce Forsyth, I think he's a wonderful entertainer."

Ricky Tomlinson played Jim in the BBC comedy The Royle Family

BBC Radio 1 DJ Chris Moyles won the award for the funniest radio show, while the title of funniest woman went to Extras star Ashley Jenson who plays Maggie Jacobs.

Jimmy Carr picked up best stand up, having won funniest man last year, and Celebrity Love Island star Paul Danan took the title of funniest reality TV personality.

Justin Lee Collins and Alan Carr won two titles - funniest TV show for the Friday Night Project and funniest double act.

The winners were voted for by readers of the magazine Loaded.