PM cracks jokes at awards ceremony

He was joined at Tuesday night's event at London's Royal Opera House by a host of stars including actress Gemma Arterton and Doctor Who actor Matt Smith, who both collected awards.

Smith, 27, came out of the Tardis to receive his prize, presented by artist Tracey Emin, for best actor. Quantum Of Solace and Capturing Mary star Arterton, 24, was named Woman of the Year at the ceremony, hosted by actor James Nesbitt.

In a light-hearted speech in front of guests, the PM took a jovial swipe at Wayne Rooney's recent troubles, his under-pressure communications chief and his own reputation as part of the "Brokeback" coalition.

Receiving the award for Politician of the Year from Sir David Frost, Mr Cameron apologised for not joining the guests for dinner. But he brought good news in the shape of England's 3-1 win in Switzerland.

"Wayne Rooney has scored and this time it's on the pitch, in the opponent's goal, actually playing for his country so I'm pleased to announce that," Mr Cameron quipped.

The Prime Minister said he had doubts over whether to attend the event, given that he so recently became a father again.

"I said to Andy Coulson - we are still speaking - I said to Andy, 'Look, I've spent the last week with someone who can't communicate, dribbles uncontrollably and is attached to the bottle every half-an-hour and he said 'you'll fit in perfectly'," the Prime Minister said.

Before leaving the stage, Mr Cameron turned to Sir David and suggested they had one thing in common - both had films made about their lives.

"Yours was, of course, the very successful Frost/Nixon and mine was, of course, Brokeback Mountain," he joked, adding: "And on that note I'd like to actually share this with Nick Clegg because he had the bravery to do the right thing."