Caine honoured by Variety Club

Sir Michael Caine's Oustanding Contribution to the arts has been recognised at the Variety Club Awards.

The 75-year-old was presented with the top gong for his five decades in the limelight, during which he has appeared in films including The Italian Job, Alfie and Get Carter.

James McAvoy was presented with the Film Award at the 56th annual event, having appeared in movies such as Atonement and The Last King Of Scotland. The gong for Stage Performance went to Kenneth Branagh for his role in Chekhov's Ivanov, while the cast of Hairspray took home the Musical Theatre award.

Noel Edmonds was named Showbusiness Personality of the year for Channel 4's Deal Or No Deal, while Al Pacino took home the International Award.

The Carron Keating Award for Outstanding New Talent went to Colin Morgan for his role in the BBC's Merlin.