One Direction remained a BRIT Awards favourite at Wednesday's ceremony.

The boy band won several accolades on the night, including the coveted Global Success Award, and their music promo for Best Song Ever earned the trophy for British Video of the Year.

But when the band came onstage to accept the Global Success Award for the second time in as many years, it appeared the group experienced a momentary snafu.

"Sorry, I was having a wee, the toilets are ages away,' Harry Styles said when he finally reached the microphone after sprinting from the sidestage to join his band members Niall Horan, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik at the podium.

One Direction's trophies were rivalled by the Arctic Monkeys only, as the rock band also picked up two in the Best British Album and British Group categories.

The night was filled with riveting performances, including a surprise act by Beyonce Knowles, who was apparently confirmed to grace the stage just hours before the ceremony commenced.

Beyonce sang her single XO for the first time ever during a televised broadcast. And the stunning star looked spectacular in a sparkly, floor-length, mermaid green gown as she bellowed out the catchy tune.

Katy Perry also put on a riveting performance of her hit Dark Horse. The pop songstress donned a rainbow coloured outfit which mirror the look of Ancient Egyptians, and her bright neon look was mirrored by the multiple backing dancers who graced the stage with her.

Teenage New Zealander Lorde was also a huge hit with fans, as the 17-year-old picked up the trophy for International Female Solo Artist of the year. She beat stiff competition, as Janelle Monae, Katy Perry and Lady Gaga were also up for the award.

The 2014 BRIT Awards took place at London's O2 Arena.