Mumford & Sons have been awarded the gong for 'Best British Group' at the BRIT Awards in London tonight (February 20).

The folk band - comprising of Marcus Mumford, Ben Lovett, Winston Marshall, and Ted Dwane - took to the stage to receive the award from Hollywood stars Simon Pegg and  Bérénice Marlohe.

In his acceptance speech, Mumford gushed: "Thank very much indeed. We weren't really expecting that. We're in a group with muse and One Direction so that's a surprise.

He added: "That's a really honour. We love being British and going round the world telling people we're British.

Mumford & Sons beat off competition from Alt-J, The XX, Muse and One Direction.

Next up, Radio One presenter Nick Grimshaw announced the nominees for 'Best British Breakthrough Act', before congratulating Ben Howard on his win.

The singer-songwriter kept his acceptance speech short and sweet, admitting he isn't great at public speaking.

Howard beat off competition from Jake Bugg, Jessie Ware, Alt-J and Rita Ora.