Gary Barlow has been voted the Greatest British Songwriter.

The Take That star was voted top in the poll, beating Beatles legends John Lennon and Paul McCartney, who were named second and third respectively.

Gary is responsible for some of Take That's biggest hits, including UK number one singles 'Pray', 'Back for Good' and 'Patience'.

He also penned a series of hits for other artists including former child singing sensation Charlotte Church and boy band Blue. Gary has won five prestigious Ivor Novello awards for his songwriting.

Gary, who recently released album 'Circus' with Take That, feels his best work to date is his most recent.

He said: "This album has been the most enjoyable record I've ever made. It feels perfect and it feels like it could be our ultimate record."

A spokesperson for research company onepoll, who conducted the survey of 3,000 people, said: "Gary has been responsible for some of the biggest hits of the past decade."

Other artists to feature in the poll include Gary's former Take That bandmate Robbie Williams, Coldplay frontman Chris Martin and George Michael.

Full list of the top 10 British songwriters according to onepoll:

1. Gary Barlow
2. John Lennon
3. Sir Paul McCartney
4. Chris Martin
5. George Michael
6. Bee Gees
7. Noel Gallagher
8. Robbie Williams
9. Sting
10. Kate Bush