The star showed that even with a troubled personal life he was still a huge hit with the public by picking up the award for Most Popular Entertainment Presenter.

Barrymore was uncharacteristically restrained as he picked up his award.

Last year he broke down after a rambling acceptance speech, but this year managed to keep his composure.

He joked: "They say in life that you have to stand and be counted - I'm just happy I'm still standing tonight."

Recognition award

Coronation Street ended a two-year run of success for EastEnders by being named Most Popular Serial Drama at the ceremony in London's Royal Albert Hall.

Inspector Morse star John Thaw was also among the big winners of the night, picking up a special recognition award and the Most Popular Actor title.

Richard and Judy: Morning glory

Daytime television couple Richard and Judy received a late birthday surprise for their show when it scooped a top award.

This Morning, marking its 10th anniversary this month, was named Most Popular Daytime Programme.

Richard Madeley had grumbled about never winning an award despite 10 years of presenting This Morning.

He even admitted he had bet against himself winning.

He said after winning the award: "I am £15 down but we have won an award, we are thrilled."

Carol Smillie: So exciting

After years off air Michael Parkinson proved he had returned to form in the mind of the public when his programme was named Most Popular Talk Show.

Carol Smillie was clearly delighted when her show Changing Rooms was named Most Popular Factual Entertainment Programme.

She bounded on stage wearing a full-length lavender silk dress followed by her co-presenters who included Linda Barker and the show's handyman Handy Andy.

She beamed: "This is just so exciting."

The full results are:

• Most popular actor - John Thaw

• Most Popular Actress - Amanda Burton

• Most Popular Comedy Performer - Nicholas Lyndhurst

• Most Popular Entertainment Presenter - Michael Barrymore

• Most Popular Comedy Programme - The Vicar Of Dibley

• Most Popular Drama Series - Jonathan Creek

• Most Popular Entertainment Programme - Stars In Their Eyes

• Most Popular Quiz Programme - Have I Got News For You

• Most Popular Factual Entertainment Programme - Changing Rooms

• Most Popular Serial Drama - Coronation Street

• Most Popular Talk Show - Parkinson

• Most Popular Daytime Programme - This Morning

• Most Popular Newcomer - Anna Brecon (Emmerdale)

• Most Popular Documentary Series - Full Circle with Michael Palin

• Most Popular Advertisement - Diet Coke, 11.30am appointment

• Special Recognition Award - John Thaw