NEWPORT’S top ragga-metal band Skindred, well-known for their live performances, have scooped an award with Kerrang!

The respected weekly rock publication gave them a special ‘Devotion Award’ for doing things in their own inimitable way.

This follows on from the recent release of their new album Union Black, heralded by some as the band’s best to date and one of the rock records of the year.

Skindred drummer Arya Goggin said: “We are chuffed to bits to of received this award.

“It’s great to receive recognition for what we do which has always been about drawing from many musical influences in the records we make and remaining true to the Skindred sound.

“So it’s really nice to see people are starting to sit up and take notice and this award is to us a celebration of this.

“Thank you to Kerrang! and to all those who have supported us.”

It has been a remarkable time for the band in recent weeks after they won the Best Live Act Award at this year’s Golden God Awards at the O2 in London.