The results are in and it’s a win for Barry Kerr!

Irish artist Barry Kerr has won the inaugural Folk Album of the Year Award  for his 2025 record, Curlew’s Cry – announced this evening on St. Patrick’s Day at Rochdale Town Hall. How apt is that – just hope the Guinness in Rochdale is up to speed…

The ceremony, attended by invited musicians and industry professionals, followed a Jools Holland-style format, with speeches and performances unfolding across two stages while guests gathered around candle-lit tables inside the ornate Victorian hall. 

Live performances came from the other shortlisted artists: Peggy Seeger, Grace Stewart Skinner, Joshua Burnside, Cynefin, Spafford Campbell, Gigspanner Big Band and Edith WeUtonga, while Poor Creature appeared via a specially pre-recorded video.

The Award was supported by Rochdale Development Agency and formed a key part of Rochdale’s 2026 Greater Manchester Town of Culture celebrations.

Photos by Chris Payne

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