Wirral songwriter Bill Ryder-Jones has won Merseyside music prize The GIT (Get Into This) Award.

Bill won the fifth edition of the prize following an outstanding year which saw his third record West Kirby County Primary finish among many top five album of the year polls.

The former member of The Coral has enjoyed wide-spread acclaim for his production credits and a range of special shows including commissioning pieces for Light Night, Manchester Cathedral and a sell-out headline UK tour.

Bill, who is currently on a European tour with Mumford & Sons, sent a message from Germany while family friend Steve Power received the award on his behalf.

He also picked up £1,000 prize and will spend the money on equipment for a new studio he is opening in Birkenhead.