BBC honour for famed folk artist Martin Carthy

They both be given lifetime achievement prizes at the event as the ceremony celebrating traditional music marks its 15th year.

Carthy has been one of the key figures in British folk for half a century, releasing 10 albums as a solo star, and more than 40 with other groups such as Steeleye Span and with acclaimed singer and Yorkshire-born wife Norma Waterson in the group The Watersons or as Waterson:Carthy, a line-up that also includes their award-winning musician daughter Eliza, and Saul Rose.

“I’ve just been lucky enough to follow my heart and pretty much do what I want over the past 50 years or so,” he said. “If, along the way, I’ve been able to play a part, however small, in keeping the traditional music of these islands alive, then I consider myself a fortunate man.”

Clannad – who charted with their theme music to TV series Harry’s Game in 1982 – will also play at the event to be staged at the Royal Albert Hall in London on February 19.

Another honorary prize – the “good tradition” award – will be given to the Cambridge Folk Festival which celebrates its 50th birthday this year.

Radio 2 controller Bob Shennan said: “Clannad and Martin Carthy have made magnificent contributions to folk music over the years and are thoroughly deserving of these prestigious accolades.”

Other performers on the night will include Bellowhead and Suzanne Vega.