Madonna Sexes Up Mtv Awards

She didn't win anything, but last night's MTV Video Music Awards belonged to Madonna. The 45-year-old singer proved that middle-aged respectability is still far off with a sexed-up rendition of Like a Virgin and Hollywood.

Clad in black with dominatrix-style boots as she performed alongside Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera, she caused a commotion when she fondled them before kissing them both full on the lips.

Shlock tactics aside, Justin Timberlake and Coldplay were the night's big winners, picking up three awards each, while Missy Elliot won the video of the year gong for Work It.

Britain's only other transatlantic success story, Radiohead, were awarded best art direction, for There There, the first single of their new album All Hail to the Thief, and Duran Duran reunited to accept the lifetime achievement award.

The night was compered by comedian Chris Rock; Jack Black, Adam Sandler and Eminem were among the guest presenters.

Outside New York's Radio City Music Hall, Snoop Dogg caused a stir when he arrived accompanied by two ladies on leashes. Christina Aguilera, true to form, wore as little as possible; in this instance, a dress that appeared to be made entirely from pink feathers.