Plant awarded 'beard of the year'

Led Zeppelin played a reunion gig in London earlier this month

Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant has the beard of the year, according to the Beard Liberation Front, an informal network of beard wearers.

Liverpool football manager Rafael Benitez came second, with third place shared by entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson and cricketer Monty Panesar.

They were followed by comedian Russell Brand and author Michael Rosen.

The prize is designed to highlight those who promote "a positive image of hirsuteness" in the public arena.

Plant, who was clean-shaven in Led Zeppelin's 1970s heyday, was seen sporting a beard at the band's reunion gig in London earlier this month.

Beard Liberation Front organiser Keith Flett said: "The winners this year have stylish beards and are promoting a new 21st Century image of the hirsute."

Panesar, who plays for England, won the award last year.