The band took home the award at a ceremony in London for their self-titled debut album.

Foals, who were also nominated for ‘Total Life Forever’, said The xx were worthy winners.

“We couldn't not-win to a more deserving band,” they wrote in a message on Twitter. "The xx totally owned the last year. Predictable win for the very best reasons.”

The xx, who released their album in August last year, had been hotly tipped to win the award.

Other acts nominated for the Mercury Prize included Paul Weller, Corinne Bailey Rae, Dizzee Rascal and Wild Beasts.

(by Jason Gregory)