Carey Mulligan and Colin Firth win big at BAFTAs

Carey Mulligan and Colin Firth both scooped top awards at the BAFTAs, making it a great night for British stars.

Although it is only her first starring role, 24-year-old Carey managed to land the prize for leading actress for her part in the film An Education.

The young star was overwhelmed at winning the prize against big names like Meryl Streep and French actress Audrey Tautou for her role as Coco Chanel, especially as until recently she was still working in a pub to pay the rent.

Colin Firth picked up the prize for his part in the drama A Single Man, which is the first film directed by top fashion designer Tom Ford.

It could be a good year for both performers as they have both also been nominated in the same categories at this year's Oscars, which take place on March 7th.

Fans of the Twilight films will also be pleased as Kristen Stewart, who plays Bella Swan in the series, was voted for by the public to be awarded the rising star honour.

C'ya Charlotte Lassiter