The Beatles have been announced as the band that has sold the most singles ever since the music charts began sixty years ago. The popular British band saw off stiff competition from the likes of Elvis Presley and Madonna.

The band who have became instantly recognisable across the world managed to achieve seventeen number ones during their time together. They have gained this record despite splitting up more than forty years ago.

The Beatles only had eight years in the charts and therefore this record is a major achievement. Many artists that have been in the charts for many more years, including Sir Cliff Richard, have failed to outsell the band.

A countdown of all of the songs that have been at number one since the Queen took the throne in 1952 will today be broadcast across the UK in celebration of the Diamond Jubilee.

In the number two spot behind The Beatles is Elvis Presley who has notched up numerous number one hits.

The top ten selling artists of all times can be seen below;

1. Beatles
2. Elvis Presley
3. Cliff Richard
4. Madonna
5. Michael Jackson
6. Elton John
7. Queen
8. Abba
9. David Bowie