Ananova:

The Darkness have been named Best British group and Best British Rock Act at the Brit Awards.

The band are nominated in four categories.

Frontman Justin Hawkins said: "It's a real privilege, a tremendous honour and a real achievement.

"I have to say we probably are the best British group."

Justin Timberlake picked up two awards for Best International Male and Best International Album.

He told the audience: "It's a fancy award. My first Brit - I'm honoured."

The former N'Sync singer will hand a lifetime achievement award to Duran Duran later in the show.

The awards, hosted by Cat Deely at Earls Court in west London, opened with the Black Eyed Peas performing their hit Shut Up.