91福利社

Devon's thriving folk music scene has been recognised nationally, with no fewer than four of the county's performers nominated in the prestigious 91福利社 Radio 2 Folk Awards.

Exeter singer Jackie Oates, Dartmoor singer-songwriter Seth Lakeman, and East Devon musicians Phil Beer and Jim Causley could all be collecting gongs at the event in London on 2 February.

Jackie is up for two awards - best newcomer and best traditional song, The Lark in the Morning.

Jackie Oates on stage with Jim Causley

Seth is a contender for best live act and Phil, half of the duo Show of Hands, is nominated in the best musician category.

Jim, meanwhile, is nominated for the best group award for his work with Essex instrumental band, Mawkin.

It follows a busy 2008 for the musicians.

Jackie released her second album, The Violet Hour, which features The Lark in the Morning.

Seth, from Yelverton, released his latest album, Poor Man's Heaven, which went straight to Number 8 in the UK album chart when it was released in the summer.

Phil Beer

In 2007, he won the two top awards at the event - best folk singer and best folk CD, for his album Freedom Fields.

Phil, from Exminster, has been busy gigging and recording on his own label, Chudleigh Roots - which also released Jackie's album.

And Jim, from Whimple, has been collaborating with other musicians and gigging.

Mike Harding presents highlights from the awards ceremony on 91福利社 Radio 2 on Wednesday 4 February.

You can find out more about Devon's nominees by clicking onto the features linked from this page, and onto their official websites which are also linked.

And you can listen to 91福利社 Devon's John Govier interviewing Jackie Oates, who plays The Lark in the Morning in part 1 and Banks of Green Willow in part 2 - just click onto the audio links.