Famed Beatles producer Sir George Martin was honoured with the top prize at the Music Producers Guild Awards on Thursday (07Feb13) for his contributions to music.

The recording studio pioneer, credited with shaping the Fab Four's sound, received the Outstanding Contribution to U.K. Music trophy at a prizegiving in London.

Sir Paul MCCartney paid tribute to his pal in a video message, and Sir George told the audience, "I'm so thrilled by this because I never thought I'd get any more awards."

Fellow Beatles producer Glyn Johns bagged the Inspiration Award, while Icelandic singer Bjork took home the Innovation Award.

Songwriter Paul Epworth, who won a Golden Globe last month (Jan13) for co-writing Adele's Skyfall theme tune, saw off competition from stars including Damon Albarn to land the coveted U.K. Producer of the Year honour, and Florence Welch took to the stage to heap praise on her pal.

Speaking about Epworth, who worked with her on Florence + the MAChine's second album Ceremonials, she said, "(He was) the only producer I wanted to work with. His innovation and passion are constantly inspiring, and I am grateful to have worked with him on an album that I am so proud of."

Ceremonials was also an award winner - it was named Album of the Year at the ceremony.