A SINGER-songwriter from Leigh has hit all the right notes with British Country Music Awards judges.

Dad-of-two Gary Quinn, of Leigh Road, was named the UK Male Vocalist of the Year at an awards ceremony in London on Sunday.

It is the 35-year-old's second British Country Music Awards success after he scooped Song of the Year for He Don’t Show Her Anymore in 2014.

Gary said: “I am so proud to have won the UK Male Vocalist of the Year award as I have received recognition for my song writing in the past but never for my singing.

"I was up against some top quality artists so I am chuffed to have won the award.

"I feel such a great sense of validation.

“Country music in the UK is becoming so popular and it is great to be a part of it and the journey into bigger and better things.

"All the nominees should be proud.”

Gary, who has recently returned from Nashville, the home of country music, after writing songs for his upcoming album and taking part in a TV show about the genre called Songs From The Cellar, overcame strong competition from Richard Palmer, Nathan Carter, Alan West and last year’s winner Ben Earle from The Shires to win the coveted award.

He moved to Leigh from Northern Ireland six years ago and admits that he used to keep his passion for country music to himself.

Gary said: “Even growing up in Ireland I hid my love of country music.

"But it is becoming more and more popular and after winning this award I have received so much praise from people in Leigh and also from people back in Ireland.

“Facebook just exploded with praise on Sunday night. It was incredible.”

The award winners were decided by public votes.

Gary's songs can be purchased on iTunes at apple.co/1p1DlRC. To find out more about his music visit garyjpquinn.co.uk.