THE Beardsmith family from Nantwich have been crowned the UK's number one family by GMTV viewers.

The musical family are now hoping to follow in the footsteps of legendary acts such as the Jackson Five, the Nolan Sisters and the Osmonds.

The band, made up of father Neil, 63, daughter Alice, 14, and sons Gary, 24, Ged, 20, Gill, 12 and Graham 25, have been declared victors after a three month search to find Britain’s biggest family super group.

Having emerged as favourites following a head to head with four rival family acts, Beardsmith were awarded a contract with record label Universal, as well as an exciting Christmas album deal.

The band first auditioned in Cardiff during a nationwide talent trawl, launched by GMTV back in July.

After progressing through to the semi-finals, they soon faced the fear-inducing trio of judges.

These included music manager Jonathan Shalit, who will now represent the group, A and R manager Jordan Jay, and performer Bernie Nolan, herself about to reunite with one of Britain’s best loved family collectives.

After their win was announced live on air, an ecstatic Beardsmith declared their victory 'brilliant!'.

Dad Neil told the Guardian: “We have always been a close family as we’re always together.

“We’re really looking forward to doing the Christmas record now and people can expect some tradional Christmas records performed in the Beardsmith style.

“If the album is successful, who knows where it will take us.”

Youngest member Gill, who plays drums and mandolin said he enjoys the freedom of playing and being with his family on tour.

Neil set up the band with his family 10 years ago.

He was a scout leader and set up the family band to play at a local fair.

Everyone said how brilliant they were and they have been playing in a band together ever since.

The family have always been musical, and Neil has taught all the children to play musical instruments as part of their home schooling.

They now travel around the country playing gigs, including holiday parks and outdoor events.

At the Cardiff auditions they played You Give Love a Bad Name by Bon Jovi and in the semis chose family band the Bee Gees and played Staying Alive.

The family rent a farm near Nantwich and all the children have been home schooled, which came about because Graham was bullied at school.

Look out for Beardsmith’s festive themed album when it is released in December.