Hudson, Smith scoop NAACP Awards

Jennifer Hudson and Will Smith were among the winners at last night's NAACP Image Awards in Los Angeles.

Hudson scooped three awards, including best new artist, at the annual ceremony hosted by the National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People.

Accepting her third award to a standing ovation, she said: "This is where we come from. So it's always an honour to come here and feel welcome and to feel the love."

The actress, who also won gongs for best album and best collaboration, added: "I really cherish this and appreciate it."

Smith picked up a best actor prize for his role in Seven Pounds and used his acceptance speech to pay tribute to new US President Barack Obama.

"This is a rare opportunity for me," he said. "I stand on this stage today - after a dream that I've dreamed for a long time - because we have an African-American President."

Other winners included Beyoncé, who scooped the best female artist award, and The Secret Life Of Bees, which was named best film.

Grey's Anatomy dominated the television categories, going home with three prizes including best drama.

Muhammad Ali was the guest of honour at the ceremony, which coincided with the organisation's 100th anniversary. The NAACP Awards honour the achievements of people of colour in film, television, music and literature.