CONGRATULATIONS go to two Manchester TV shows today, shining on the global stage.
Both Life On Mars and Vincent won International Emmys in New York last night.
I was up long before dawn to report on a night of triumph for British TV. You can read the online version of today’s MEN report here.
BBC1’s Life On Mars was named Best Drama ahead of fellow nominees, including Vincent.
Co-creator and writer Matthew Graham was among members of the TV team who collected the award.
He said: “We have had such a fantastic response to Life On Mars from viewers and critics alike and this award is the icing on the cake.
“I’m sure, somewhere, Sam Tyler, Gene Hunt and the gang are splashing on the Old Spice, donning their flares and opening the Party Seven – celebrating in proper, seventies style.”
Executive producer and joint managing director of production company Kudos Jane Featherstone was also delighted.
She said: “We are thrilled that the exploits of a man who doesn’t know if he’s in a coma or mad and his sexist brute of a partner have been recognised with an Emmy.”

There was consolation for ITV Granada as Ray Winstone (right) was named Best Actor for his role as Vincent Gallagher.
Ray is currently filming in Australia and missed the awards.
He said later: “I’m thrilled to have won the Best Actor Award. It’s a real honour to be recognised internationally.
“But it’s the show that has won because Stephen Butchard and the production team have created such a great role for me.”
Click here for lots more on Life On Mars.
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Life On Mars: The Windy Miller Years.