I am not defending the folk awards folk awards but:

Ask Ewan McLennan or Moore Moss Rutter in six months time if the award makes any difference. Hands up those people who have actually seen Ewan perform. So young and up and coming artists do get a look in. Ewan is 24.

The last time Norma or Eliza won anything was 2003.

Despite what people say Show of Hands won Best Duo last year - even though they are a trio! They have also won Best original Song, and Best Live Act, in the last ten years. So it doesn't look like they are excluded. The last time Eliza or Norma won an award was 2003.