TV's great dames head to head in Emmy Awards

Two great dames will go head to head at this year's Emmy Awards in a clash of the costume dramas.

Dame Maggie Smith and Dame Eileen Atkins are both nominated in the category for supporting actress in a miniseries or movie for their roles in Downton Abbey and Upstairs, Downstairs respectively.

Two other stars of the hit shows are nominated with veteran actress Jean Marsh up for lead actress in a mini-series or movie after she reprised her role as Rose Buck in the BBC1 remake of the hit show.

Marsh is up against London-based American actress Elizabeth McGovern who plays the Countess of Grantham in ITV1's Downton Abbey. Also in the running are Oscar winner Kate Winslet for her performance in the title role in Mildred Pierce.

Other British talent recognised include five-times Emmy nominee Hugh Laurie who was nominated for lead actor in a drama series for his role as Dr Gregory House in House.