The Who’s lead guitarist Pete Townshend was voted a Living Legend at last night’s International Rock Awards.

He follows in the footsteps of previous winners Keith Richards and Eric Clapton. His presentation with an Elvis Presley statuette was the highlight of the 90-minute star-studded show at London’s Docklands Arena.

The 46-year-old rock star, who penned such hits as My Generation and Substitute, performed live on stage before receiving his award in a show broadcast live via satellite to more than 20 countries.

Entertaining the 12,000-strong crowd were Sting, who won the Bassist of the Year Award, ZZ Top, named Video

Pete Townshend with his Elvis statuette ‘Living Legend’ award

Legends of the Year, and The Doobie Brothers.

Other winners at the third international awards included: Chris Isaak — Lead Male Vocalist of the Year; Chrissie Hynde — Female Vocalist of the Year; Vernon Reid — Guitarist of the Year.