A STAR-STUDDED event marked this year's Irish Post Awards as the cream of Irish talent descended upon London's Piccadilly.

The event was attended by celebrities such as Comedy Award winner Ardal O'Hanlon, famous from his days as Father Dougal McGuire on the television show Father Ted, and The Pogues frontman Shane MacGowan, who scooped the Outstanding Irish Music Personality Award.

The sporting field was also well represented as Kilkenny GAA legend DJ Carey picked up his Hall of Fame Award and European Cup champions the Munster rugby team scooped the award for the Best Sporting Achievement of 2006.

The Special Recognition Award went to Ireland Fund of Great Britain chairman Peter Sutherland while the Local Community Award went to Birmingham-based charity worker Sister Teresa Moore.

The Outstanding Contribution to Community Award was presented to the man behind The Big Issue magazine, John Bird.

The Drama Award went to Irish actor Chris O'Dowd with investigative reporter Donal MacIntyre picking up the TV Personality Award. Author Sheila O'Flanagan meanwhile was presented with the Literature Award.

Irish music veteran Mary Black picked up the award for Music Hall of Fame while Irish band Triniti scooped the Music Newcomer Award.

A special presentation was made to Arlington House, which provides accommodation for homeless men in London.

CEO of the Irish Post, David O'Sullivan said: "The Irish Post is very proud of the contribution we have made to the Irish community in Britain and has always sought to reflect the enormous contribution which Irish people have made and continue to make in Britain."

Award sponsors included the Vince Power Music Group, Guinness, Tourism Ireland, Waterford Crystal, Ardmore Group, MGF, The Gift Voucher Shop and Irish Ferries.

The awards, which are now in their 30th year were presented by television personality Eamonn Holmes and were held at the Park Lane Sheraton Hotel in Piccadilly.