American Pie singer Don McLean and veteran Irish band The Dubliners are to give much-anticipated live performances at the annual BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.

Both acts will perform at the Lowry Theatre in Salford after receiving lifetime achievement awards at this evening's event.

It is the 13th year of the awards, which were created to celebrate the UK's vibrant folk scene - currently undergoing a resurgence - and it is the first time the event has been held outside London.

The Dubliners are now among the most recognisable names in traditional Irish music since they formed 50 years ago - and are famed for tracks such as Whiskey In The Jar, The Wild Rover and The Rocky Road To Dublin.

McLean first hit the charts in 1971 and last year was among performers at Glastonbury Festival. His best known hits, Vincent and American Pie, have become musical standards and covered countless times.

Jeff Smith, head of music for Radio 2 and 6 Music, said: "Radio 2 is committed to featuring folk music as part of our specialist music output, so we're delighted to be holding the Radio 2 Folk Awards in Salford this year - and that listeners will be able to also watch the ceremony.

"Both The Dubliners and Don McLean are much loved by the Radio 2 audience, and I'd like to congratulate them on their well-deserved awards."

Hosted by Radio 2's Folk Show presenter Mike Harding, alongside singer Julie Fowlis, the other awards to be presented include Folk Singer of the Year, Best Group, Best Album and Best Live Act.

Additional to being transmitted live on BBC Radio 2, the awards will also be available for fans to watch live by using the BBC interactive Red Button service or by streaming online via bbc.co.uk/radio2.