Victoria Beckham scoops top fashion gong

How does she do it? That's what the fashion world was left wondering yesterday as former Spice Girl and mother-of-four Victoria Beckham won Designer Brand of the Year at the British Fashion Awards in London.

Clearly taken by surprise at having seen off competition from Stella McCartney, Burberry and Gucci, the designer broke down in tears, exclaiming: "I'm so sorry for crying. This is really rubbish of me."

Resplendent in a jet-black backless gown and displaying no signs of jetlag, Beckham paid tribute to her husband for supporting her foray into the world of fashion. "Without David," she said, "I wouldn't have had the courage to do what I'm doing."

Sarah Burton, the creator of the Duchess of Cambridge's wedding dress, won the coveted Designer of the Year plaudit, while Sir Paul Smith took home the award for Outstanding Achievement.