Comic Ricky Gervais, star of the BBC sitcom, 'The Office', has been voted the most influential figure in British comedy.
He triumphed over fellow comedians Steve Coogan and Irish comedian Graham Norton.
'The Office' was described as "peerless" with Gervais and writing partner Stephen Merchant dubbed the most potent duo in television.
'The Office' won two top prizes at the Bafta TV Awards in April, and Gervais was named best comedy actor at the British Comedy Awards in December.
