New Black Sabbath album tops charts for the first time since 1970

Black Sabbath are number one in the charts for the first time since 1970. Credit: PA

Black Sabbath have stormed to the top of the charts for the first time since 1970 with their new album, entitled '13'.

The heavy rock trailblazers have set a new UK chart record for the longest gap between number one albums, overtaking Rod Stewart who set a similar record last month.

Charismatic frontman Ozzy Osbourne said it was "great" to have beaten Stewart but added: "Rod's the same as us, we've got something other people haven't got.

"The likes of Rod, and Elton John and us have got something different. We know our craft."

Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi. Credit: PA

It was 43 years ago that Black Sabbath last hit the top spot with 'Paranoid' in 1970. The new album '13' reunites the original band members Osbourne, Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler.

The comeback, which was released on Monday, has sold 13,000 more copies than Liam Gallagher's band Beady Eye which is at number two with 'BE'.

Osbourne added: "I'm in shock, the success of this album has blown me off my feet. We've never had a record climb the charts so fast."

Bassist Geezer Butler. Credit: PA

He said the band would "probably" release another album, but added: "We're still revelling in coming back with this.

"I don't want to promise anything to anyone. It took us long enough to do this, and we can't wait another 43 years to have another number one.

"If it comes to pass we don't make another record, then I can rest easily knowing we finished things properly with 13."

Watch Black Sabbath performing 'End of the Beginning' from their new album: