Former EastEnders star wins Olivier award

Martine McCutcheon has won one of UK theatre's top prizes, despite being off sick for much of her show's run.

She was named best actress in a musical for My Fair Lady at the Laurence Olivier Awards.

My Fair Lady won three awards in all, with director Trevor Nunn landing an outstanding achievement award.

Kiss Me, Kate which had been nominated for nine awards - to My Fair Lady's eight - won none.

McCutcheon's co-star Jonathan Pryce, who played her mentor Professor Higgins, was nominated for best actor in a musical, but missed out to Philip Quast for South Pacific, at the ceremony in London's Victoria Palace Theatre today.

My Fair Lady's other trophies were for best musical and best choreography.

Lindsay Duncan was named best actress for her role in Private Lives. The show won two other awards for behind the scenes work.

Best actor went to Roger Allam for Privates On Parade.