The Mercury Prize nominations for 2009's best album have been announced and La Roux are hotly tipped to win.

The Mercury Prize was established in 1992 as an alternative to the more commercially minded Brit awards. A panel of industry experts, including journalists, musicians and independent-label executives, debate the merits of what they believe to be the finest British albums from the past year, regardless of sales or radio play. 

The winner of this year's award will be announced on 8 September 2009.

Watch Elly Jackson discuss her new found fame below: