RICKY GERVAIS - GERVAIS SUPPORTS GLOBES BOYCOTT

Ricky Gervais said he was delighted to pick up the gong for best sitcom at the Golden Globes despite the lack of an award ceremony in Los Angeles.

The British comedian's Extras show scooped the award last night, although none of the nominees were there to collect it because of the ongoing writers' strike in Hollywood.

Speaking after his win – the third of his career following previous success with The Office – Gervais admitted that it was a "tough time" for the film and TV industry in LA but that he was still pleased to be honoured.

"A lot of lives are being affected so I can't really moan about not being able to put on a dickie bow when there are real issues," he told BBC News.

"But it's my favourite awards ceremony. It's the most important TV ceremony in the world."

He added: "Even though it's my third the novelty hasn't worn off. It's a really prestigious award and I'm very proud."

Gervais was one of a number of Brits to be bestowed with a Golden Globe – the second most influential award after an Oscar.

Atonement, the screen version of Ian McEwen's bestselling novel which starred British actors Keira Knightley and James McAvoy, picked up the best film award, as well as best original score.

And Channel 4's Moors murders drama Longford won a hat-trick of gongs, scooping the best miniseries or made-for-TV film award and seeing two of its main actors honoured.

Jim Broadbent picked up the best actor in a TV miniseries award for his depiction of Lord Longford, whose relation ship with murderer Mrya Hindley was explored by the series.

Samantha Morton was named best supporting TV actress for her role as Hindley.