The 23-year-old singer-songwriter, who grew up in Linslade and now lives in Liverpool Street, London, has been nominated for the Indy Music Awards by Milton Keynes venue The Stables.

Dan said: "I don't play music to win awards, but obviously its very flattering to be nominated by a venue because they like what you do.

"I just like writing songs, and then getting on stage and playing the music. But if people like what you do then so much the better, and if they want to vote for me too then it will help me put my music out to even more people."

Unlike most awards of the same ilk, music acts have to be nominated for the Indy Awards by venues. The emphasis is placed firmly on how impressive a band or singer's live show is.

Dan made headlines last year when he became only the second act to play the acoustic stage at The Stables.

But that was far from the only highlight of Dan's year, which also included the support slot on Joan Armatrading's European tour, as well as live dates up and down the country.

He said: "I would describe my sound as being like Neil Young or Ronnie Lane. I was playing solo for most of last year but I've got a backing band now, with a banjo player, someone playing the fiddle, and a bassist and drummer.

"It has been great hearing my songs being realised by a full band."

Voting for the Indy Awards close March 31.