AP McCoy crowned BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year 2010

Champion jumps jockey AP McCoy was crowned BBC's Sports Personality of the Year 2010 last night.

The Irishman saw off darts player Phil 'The Power' Taylor and heptathlete Jessica Ennis who came second and third respectively.

Accepting his award, McCoy said: 'This is an unbelievable feeling to be standing in front of so many amazing sports people. To win this award is very surreal. Without the help of so many people I wouldn't be here.

McCoy had been the overwhelming favourite to win the coveted award prior to the public vote.

The 36-year-old has been champion jockey a record 15 times in a row and has ridden more than 3,000 winners.

Surprisingly the only other Irishman nominated for the award, Graeme McDowell, did not make it into the top three.