British star Eddie Redmayne has won the Best Actor prize at the British Academy Film Awards in London.

The 33-year-old Brit, who starred as Professor Stephen Hawking in 'The Theory of Everything', won the sought-after award ahead of Benedict Cumberbatch ('The Imitation Game'), Ralph Fiennes ('The Grand Budapest Hotel'), Jake Gyllenhaal ('Nightcrawler') and Michael Keaton ('Birdman').

After collecting his award, he said: ''I was at the BAFTAs three years ago and I had food poisoning - I redecorated the corridor of the Royal Opera House.

 That was one of the worst nights of my life - this is one of the best nights of my life.'' Redmayne dedicated his award to his own family for ''their amazing faith'', as well as his co-stars - including Felicity Jones - and the family of Stephen Hawking.

Of the Hawking family, he said: ''I want to thank them for their trust, their generosity and their kindness. ''And for reminding me of the great strength that comes from having the will to live a full and passionate life.''

Redmayne's BAFTA win comes after he won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor - Motion Picture Drama in January.