The band were in London this afternoon to receive a special honour at the annual Ivor Novello Awards.

The ceremony takes place each year to recognise songwriters rather than singers and U2 were honoured for their 'Outstanding song Collection'.

Coldplay were named songwriters of the year at the ceremony while David Gray beat Noel Gallagher to win best song for his tune The Other Side.

As well as the special honour to U2, former Roxy Music frontman Bryan Ferry was rewarded for his outstanding contribution to British music, Brian Wilson was given a special international award and UB40 were honoured for their international achievement.

MAIN WINNERS

Songwriters of the year - Coldplay
Best song - The Other Side, David Gray
Best contemporary song - Weak Become Heroes, The Streets
Best international hit - Complicated, Avril Lavigne
Dance award - Lazy, X-Press 2 featuring David Byrne
International achievement - UB40
Outstanding contribution to British music - Bryan Ferry
Outstanding song collection - U2
Special international award - Brian Wilson

More here www.britishacademy.com