Just ploughed through this lengthy thread and found no mention of the category award of "Lifetime Achievement". This year, the joint winners were both North American, Judy Collins and James Taylor.

The presence of one of them (Judy Collins) coincided with her presence on some of the BBC's "Folk America" series, and a showcase concert, televised this week. The presence of James Taylor coincided with his near-continual presence on BBC Radio2 daytime playlists.

How were they nominated / chosen? Was the Award given for their significant and enduring influence on UK folk music (which is, at best, arguable).

Could we have some comment on this, preferably without resorting to any nationalism?