Damon beats Pitt to top sexiest man poll

Matt Damon has topped a new poll to be named the 'Sexiest Man Alive'.

The 'Bourne Ultimatum' star, aged 37, beat 'Grey's Anatomy' hunk Patrick Dempsey - who is nicknamed Doctor McDreamy on the hit medical series - and 'Blade: Trinity' actor Ryan Reynolds to pole position on the annual People magazine hotlist.

The title will be a welcome accolade for Damon - he recently revealed it has been his longtime ambition to beat pal George Clooney - a frequent entrant in such surveys - to the coveted number one spot.

But married Damon, who became a first-time father earlier this year, remains coy about his win.

He tells People: "You've given an aging suburban dad the ego-boost of a lifetime."

The magazine cites Damon's "irresistible sense of humour", "rock solid family man" and "heart-melting humility" for landing him the title.

The top 10 Sexiest Men are as follows:

1. Matt Damon

2. Patrick Dempsey

3. Ryan Reynolds

4. Brad Pitt

5. James McAvoy

6. Johnny Depp

7. Dave Annable

8. Will Smith

9. Javier Bardem

10. Shamar Moore