Rocker Robert Plant picks up first Brit nomination

Veteran rocker Robert Plant has picked up his first nomination for a prestigious Brit award.

The former Led Zeppelin frontman, who has gained critical acclaim for his recent country-tinged albums, is nominated for British Male Solo Artist.

Elsewhere, X Factor winner Matt Cardle takes on one of the show's judges, Cheryl Cole, in the battle for Best Single. The show's 2008 winner Alexandra Burke is also nominated for her track All Night Long.

Up and coming singer Jessie J has already been announced as the winner of the Critics' Choice prize this year.

Rapper Tinie Tempah has also been nominated for British Male Solo Artist along with British Breakthrough Act, Single and Album of the Year.

His debut album, Disc-Overy, went straight to number one last October and he already has two number one singles to his name.

Rapper Plan B and folk-rockers Mumford And Sons have three nominations, with reformed Take That getting two for Best Group and Album of the Year - which Brits bosses have made the focus of the show.

This year's ceremony at the 02 arena in south London on Tuesday will be hosted by Gavin And Stacey star James Corden.

He said: "I have always loved the Brits and I am honoured to have been asked to host such a prestigious event."

Corden co-hosted the awards in 2009 with Kylie Minogue. This year's winners will pick up trophies designed by fashion guru Dame Vivienne Westwood.