SOUTH Devon music guru Malcolm Toft has presented top producer Tony Visconti with an award.

Mr Toft, who co-runs Newton Abbot's Music Mill, gave Mr Visconti the award for Innovation In Production at the lavish Music Producers Guild ceremony in London.

Mr Toft was also credited for his influence on Mr Visconti's hugely successful career.

The star-studded event recognises the achievements of the people in the music business who make records such as producers, engineers, mixers and mastering engineers.

Mr Visconti has worked in the industry for more than 40 years with the likes of T-Rex, David Bowie, Thin Lizzy, Morrissey, U2 and Adam Ant.

A spokesman for the Music Mill said: "Malcolm was thrilled to be asked to present this award as he has been a long time friend and colleague of Tony's. In accepting the award Tony also credited Malcolm with teaching him how to engineer while they worked together."

Among those who attended were Chris Martin, Plan B, The Coral, Alison Goldfrapp, Gary Numan and James Dean Bradfield from the Manic Street Preachers.

The Music Mill spokesman added: "We are extremely pleased to be working with members of the guild, supporting the innovation and continuing evolution of the recording industry.

"It is this continuing innovation that were are seeking to encourage through our partnership with South Devon College and students on music technology courses."