Muse named world's best band in British awards

British rock group Muse was named the best act in the world at the Q awards in London on Monday, beating off competition from Kings of Leon, Arctic Monkeys, Coldplay and Oasis.

Arctic Monkeys scooped the best live act award, following a battle with U2, Blur and Take That among others, while indie rockers Kasabian took home the prize for best album for "West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum".

Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant won the outstanding contribution to music award, one of several classic acts honoured by the readers of Q, a monthly pop and rock music magazine known for its interviews and exhaustive lists.

"Q remains proud of the fact that its awards recognising musical achievement and excellence during the past 12 months are decided by the nation's music fans, who once again have voted in their thousands," said the magazine's editor-in-chief Paul Rees.

"We are equally delighted to honour the enduring influence of those artists who have shaped our musical landscape and continue to do so."

Yusuf Islam, formerly known as Cat Stevens, won the classic songwriter award, Edwyn Collins was named "Q legend", Spandau Ballet became the latest "Q idol" and Marianne Faithful was named "Q icon".

White Lies was named best new act, Mr Hudson won the prize for breakthrough artist, Lady GaGa won best video for "Just Dance," and Lily Allen's "The Fear", her second number-one single in Britain, was named best track.

The Specials were honoured for being an inspiration, Sonic Youth for their innovation in sound and Frankie Goes to Hollywood for a classic song, "Relax," while U2's "The Unforgettable Fire" was named Q classic album.