BROADCHURCH has been crowned Best of British TV programme.

The ITV drama starring West Bay and David Tennant took top honours at last night’s fifth annual Freesat awards.

Stars of the series and Bridport-based writer and executive producer Chris Chibnall turned out in force for the glittering showbiz event.

Broadchurch took the top British programme title while Twenty Twelve also featuring its star Olivia Colman was voted Best TV Sitcom.

Freesat Managing Director, Emma Scott said: “Tonight was a fantastic celebration of everything that is truly great about British TV.

“We paid homage to the world beating creative talent behind the unique channels and groundbreaking programming that I’m proud to say make up the Freesat service.

“Congratulations to all the worthy winners which we are incredibly proud to be able to recognise year on year.”

A judging panel made up of media industry heavyweights, chaired by journalist Neil Midgley, deliberated on the best in programming and channels.

Actress and comedian Sally Phillips, best known for her roles in Miranda and Smack the Pony, hosted the event which was attended by 250 VIPs from the world of broadcast entertainment.

ITV took home the top award of the night, ‘Freesat Channel of the Year’ and other notable wins included BBC One’s coverage of The London 2012 Olympics for ‘Best Live TV Programme or Series,’ and The Food Network UK was awarded ‘Best Specialist Channel’. BBC 5 live was recognised for ‘Best News Channel of the Year’.

The British public also got to have their say in two categories, TV Personality and Best British Soap – showing their support for Ant and Dec and Coronation Street respectively, who all walked away with awards.