SOUTHAMPTON pop sensation Craig David has scooped yet another award. (26/1/01)

The 19-year-old was acknowledged as an exceptional musical talent by ITV's Popstars' "Nasty" Nigel Lythgoe when he presented the R&B star with a popular music prize.

David, pictured, scooped the accolade at the highbrow South Bank Show Awards in London, beating Robbie Williams and the band Coldplay.

Lythgoe, whose harsh put-downs to pop wannabes on the hit show have earned him a ruthless reputation, said he could not dismiss David's talents.

Unfortunately the star, who enjoyed a hugely successful year in 2000, was unable to collect his gong personally.

Last year he collected three prestigious Mobo awards and next month he could win four Brit awards.

The awards recognise the achievements in all fields of the arts.