Cheryl beats Simon Cowell to best TV judge honour

Cheryl Cole revealed her delight at scooping an award for best TV judge, despite being axed from the US X Factor after just two episodes.

The Girls Aloud star, who was replaced on the talent show by ex-Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger, pipped the show's creator, Simon Cowell, to first place for the Virgin Media TV Award.

She told followers on Twitter: "'Oh my!' And all in a couple days work, LOVE this @SimonCowell."

New UK X Factor head panellist Gary Barlow, who came fourth in the poll behind Strictly Come Dancing judge Bruno Tonioli, retweeted Cheryl's tongue-in-cheek comment.

The BBC was crowned channel of the year with more than 50 per cent of the votes. Despite bringing viewers the much-loved Downton Abbey, ITV held second place with just 10 per cent of the votes.

Golden Globe-winner Downton Abbey continued its awards success by taking top place in the best drama category.

Other big wins came for Doctor Who's assistant Karen Gillan, who took best actress and hottest female.

And McFly drummer Harry Judd waltzed his way to winning reality TV star of the year for becoming Strictly Come Dancing champion.

To view the Virgin Media TV Awards results in full online, visit virginmedia.com/tvawards