Black talent honoured at awards

The first ever BFM Film and Television Awards, held at the Grosvenor House Hotel, aim to promote black British talent across the industry.

Hollywood stars were also recognised - Angela Bassett collected the best female screen personality and Denzel Washington won the male prize.

But the emphasis was firmly on home-grown talent.

Marsha Thomason, who first made her name in BBC drama Playing The Field, won best female performance in film for her parts in Long Time Dead and comedy Black Knight.

The male prize was taken by 24 Hour Party People star Lennie James.

Babyfather actress Diane Parish won the best female performance in television prize for her part as DC Eva Sharpe in ITV1's The Bill.

Eamonn Walker, who starred in ITV1's Othello, took the male award.

CBBC presenter Angellica Bell won best presenter, while comedian Lenny Henry won the Edric Connor Inspiration Award.

Jackie Brown and Foxy Brown star Pam Grier won the lifetime achievement prize, and her award was collected for her by ER actor Eriq LaSalle, who also collected Denzel Washington's prize.

Awards founder Charles Thomson said: "I am delighted that for the first time ever, black British film-makers and actors will have a real opportunity to show the world their talent.

"This unique ceremony is a timely recognition of their contribution to the film and television industry."

Organisers said despite the recent Oscar success of Halle Berry, Denzel Washington and Sidney Poitier, the chances for British actors and actresses remained limited.

No black British actor has ever won a Bafta for a leading role.

Main winners:

Male screen personality - Denzel Washington

Female screen personality - Angela Bassett

Best film - Training Day

Best soundtrack - Ali

Best female performance in film - Marsha Thomason (Long Time Dead, Black Knight)

Best female performance in television - Diane Parish (Babyfather, The Bill)

Best male performance in film - Lennie James (24 Hour Party People)

Best male performance in television - Eamonn Walker (Othello)

Emerging talent - Zak Ove

Best presenter - Angellica Bell

Edric Connor Inspiration Award - Lenny Henry

Lifetime Achievement Award - Pam Grier