TAKE THAT - TAKE THAT ARE EARLY WINNERS AT THE BRIT AWARDS

TAKE THAT ARE EARLY WINNERS AT THE BRIT AWARDS

Reformed boyband TAKE THAT saw off competition from rock rivals ARCTIC MONKEYS, MUSE and KAISER CHIEFS to take home the first gong of the night at London's Brit Awards on Wednesday (20Feb08). The pop stars scooped the Best British Live Act prize, which was presented by BBC Radio One DJ Chris Moyles. Group member Mark Owen was delighted to take home the award, telling the crowd at London's Earl's Court it had been a difficult year for the band. He said, "We have all worked hard, still trying to dance after all these years. Howard (Donald) punctured a lung on the last tour so we appear here bruised and battered but dead chuffed." Pop star Mika opened the Brits with a spectacular performance of his hit single Love Today, complete with a giant dancehall-themed stage set. He was joined for a duet of hit single Standing In The Way of Control by the Gossip singer Beth Ditto. The Brits are being hosted by rock couple Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne, who were joined onstage by kids Kelly and Jack at the beginning of the telecast.