It was a night the UK gospel industry was waiting for for a long time. And when it came, it delivered.

The first ever Premier Gospel Awards took place last night in front of a sold out crowd at the Hub in East London. But it wasn’t just about giving out prizes, it represented a huge step forward by giving recognition to those who spread the good news in their music.

Performing on the night were Keiran Bygrave, V9 Collective, Andrew Bello, Becca Folkes, and J Vessel with the DMU Gospel Choir. With a line-up like that, you’re unlikely to get dud performances – all were great. But it was Becca Folkes who really shone. Trust us on this one: Becca Folkes is the real deal. She’s great in the studio and on any stage.

But most importantly, who took home the prizes? And the winners are…

• Best Female – Lurine Cato
• Best Video – Ekklesia – Where You Are ft Jaz Ellington
• Best Song – V9 Collective – Happy
• Best Newcomer – J Vessel
• Best International – Tasha Cobbs
• Best Male – Faith Child
• Choir of the Year – Volney Morgan & New-Ye
• Album of the Year – Noel Robinson – Outrageous Love

Gospel music hasn’t always been given the spotlight to shine on its own stage. Last night it did. And with the awards judged by a trusted panel of gospel industry figures, the outcome carries weight. Nobody left the ceremony with a prize they didn’t deserve.

Let’s hope this isn’t the last time UK gospel music gets to shine on its own terms.

A special recap show, featuring backstage interviews with the award winners, will air on Premier Gospel on Bank Holiday Monday.