THE mother of one of the now-famous ‘The Tumbling Paddies' members proudly collected the Live Music Award on their behalf last week.

From humble beginnings, the Fermanagh band has steadily grown to become one of Ireland's most sought-after entertainers.

It is led by vocalist, Gareth Maguire, and features the musical talents of John McCann, Lee Jones, Martin Treacy, Ciaran Owens, and Oisin McManus.

Finola Owens, mother of banjo player and vocalist, Ciaran Owens, said she was "a proud mammy" when she lifted the award.

"I am absolutely delighted," she said. "The boys have worked hard from when they were only young lads, much like the children who have received awards tonight.

"They were texting me throughout the night asking if there was any word on the award.

“They were blown away when they found out that they had won!”

The notoriety of The Tumbling Paddies has been steadily growing in recent years, with the recent award nod another addition to their lengthy list of achievements.

The award follows a major milestone for the band last month, when they played to thousands of people at the Belsonic festival, Belfast.

"I am so proud of what they have done," Finola continued. "They packed Belsonic last week with a crowd of 25,000, and it was an unreal moment for them.

"They met when they were young and going to fleadhs. They have worked hard, and most importantly, they have stayed together and stayed grounded.

"Despite all this, they are still grounded. Suffice to say, all the mammies and daddies are delighted!"