RYEDALE entertainer Ryan Swain is a finalist in the Northern Regional Finals of the National Entertainment Awards (NEA) for the second consecutive year.

Ryan, from Malton, is nominated in the Best Male Solo Category and the People’s Choice for his lockdown cover hit of Freed From Desire and his Play Your Cards Right daily gameshow on Instagram and online during lockdown. He has also been creating new artwork, planning an exhibition to raise money for mental health charities and doing his DJ sets online.

Last year Ryan won the National Choice Award at the national finals in London and again is in the running for two awards this year.

Ryan came in the top four of online voting poll to put him forward to represent his region in the finals this year. The winners will be revealed at an online ceremony on Sunday, September 27, due to current Covid-19 rules.

Ryan said: “I’m absolutely overwhelmed and humbled to be recognised once again for my services and hard work. Thank you to each and everyone of you have supported me from the beginning and now.

"A special thanks to all my family and my beautiful twin daughters Ivy-Kay and Isla Yasmin, my girlfriend Crystal who keeps me grounded and give me even more drive and ambition then I’ve ever had.

"A shout out to all the fans and supporters without you I can’t do what I love. 2021 is going to be huge year for me so keep posted. Well done to all the other nominees and thank you once again.”