EAST Lancashire musician Phillip Henry is the toast of the folk world after picking up the Best Duo Award at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.

Phillip, who was born and brought up in Chorley, and his partner Hannah Martin received the folk world equivalent of an Oscar at a glittering ceremony at London’s Royal Albert Hall, broadcast live on Radio 2.

“It’s all been a bit surreal,” said Phillip, 32. “It was a great night but I think it’s still sinking in. We really didn’t expect to win.

“There was an official reception afterwards and then we also had a celebration at the hotel later. It’s been a bit difficult today negotiating the Underground with a hangover.”

Phillip, who attended St Mary’s Primary School, Euxton, and then St Mary’s High School, Leyland, moved to Devon around 10 years ago but regularly returns home.

His parents Steve and Barbara who live in Euxton were in the audience to see him presented with the award by Steve Knightley and Phil Beer of the band Show of Hands.Steve and Phil gave Phillip and Hannah their first break when they spotted them busking in the back of a pub in Sidmouth and invited them to support them on tour.

“When I saw them come on stage to announce the award, I began to wonder if we might have a chance,” said Phillip.

“It’s a tremendous accolade for us and hopefully allow us to take that next step in our careers.”

Phillip and Hannah were nominated on the back of their debut album Mynd which has received great critical acclaim.

Phillip was also invited to compose the score for the recent two-part BBC TV documentary Operation Grand Canyon starring Dan Snow.

He is particularly renowned in the music world for his slide guitar and harmonica playing.

Music fans will get the chance to see the duo live as they have dates at Wigan Parish Church on Friday, March 7 and the Atkinson, Southport, on Saturday, March 15.