Gary Perkins, who began playing aged eight, picked up the prize at the British Country Music Awards – the genre's equivalent of the Brits.

The dad-of-two turned professional in 1985, and has travelled the country as a street and venue performer.

"Each category was shortlisted to five before the awards, which was a three-day event in Blackpool," said Gary, of Netherthorpe Way. "I was in two of them. I won the male solo award and it was just fantastic."

"It's all done by voting, so I'd like to thank everyone who voted for me. If you're a country performer, then these awards are like the Brits."

"It's nowhere near the same thing, but it's our equivalent."

And the 46-year-old is quick to correct anyone who might have misconceptions about the style of music.

"Country music today is often not at all like people think," he said. "People think of Dolly Parton and Don Williams, but I'd compare it more to The Eagles and bands like that."

"If you come to see me playing with my band, The Breeze, you wouldn't just say we're playing 'country' music."

Gary studied a four-year plate fabrications apprenticeship at RCAT after leaving Dinnington Comprehensive. From 18 he was playing the area's pubs and clubs.

And he then turned professional after many years of juggling performances with his career at fabrication shops and power stations.

"I had been working during the day and then playing in the evenings," he said. "But I came to a bit of a crossroads, and had to make a decision."

"After that I began travelling a lot, playing solo, as a duo and with a band. Then in 2000 I became a full-time street performer."

"The reason behind that was it enabled me to see more of my sons, Tom and Jack, and do what I wanted socially."

Sixteen-year-old Tom has continued his father's musical streak, forming his own band.

"They're called Monkeys With Guns, so you can guess it's not the same kind of music that I do," said Gary. "I let him do his own thing and didn't push him towards country."

"But there's always a guitar to pick up in my house, always something to play."

Gary will play Dinnington's Resource Centre on Saturday 18th October at 7.30pm.

For more information, visit www.garyperkinsmusic.co.uk.