Ananova:

Novelist Nick Hornby has been named the writer's writer at an annual literary award ceremony.

He collected the London Award 2003 in the city after taking part in the Orange Word International Writers Season.

Each of 10 leading writers who took part in the season - including Germaine Greer, Zadie Smith and Doris Lessing - voted for their favourite among their number.

Hornby, whose books include High Fidelity, About A Boy and How To Be Good, was presented with a first edition copy of Charles Dickens's novel David Copperfield at London's Century Club.

Orange Word has seen writers appearing on stage at the Gielgud Theatre to discuss their work and literature in general.

Previous winners have included Margaret Atwood, JG Ballard and Salman Rushdie.

Niamh Byrne of Orange UK said: "I am delighted Nick Hornby has been recognised with this award."