"It's been a good 40 years. At least, I think it has. (...) [But] I'm in a huge dispute with Ozzy, so that doesn't really help, and as far as I'm concerned, until that dispute is finished then I'm not gonna participate. They've already made an album without me, so I'm sure they'd go on without me playing, and that's okay with me – I still love them just the same. I'd love to think I could [rejoin the band], but the things I'm asking for may be out of reach."

Bill refused to be part of the group's reunion, citing contract issues while Ozzy claimed the drummer wasn't fit enough. Bill was replaced by Brad Wilk on Black Sabbath's reunion album, '13', and by Tommy Clufetos on the subsequent tour.

The Ivor Novello Awards, named after the Cardiff-born entertainer Ivor Novello, are awards for songwriting and composing. They have been presented annually in London by the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors (BASCA) since 1955.

Other winners this year included Ed Sheeran (Songwriter of the Year), Clean Bandit (Best Contemporary Song and Most Performed Work for Rather Be) and Hozier (Best Song for Take Me To Church).

Boy George received a lifetime achievement Ivor Novello award for his Outstanding Contribution to British Music. Manic Street Preachers won the Inspiration Award.