Thin Lizzy dedicated their Kerrang! Hero award to past member Phil Lynott, who died in 1986.

Thin Lizzy

Thin Lizzy

The iconic Irish rock band - who are currently comprised of Scott Gorham, Darren Wharton, Ricky Warwick, Damon Johnson, Scott Travis

and Tom Hamilton - claimed the prestigious gong during a star-studded evening at the Troxy in east London on Thursday (09.06.16).

Speaking to BANG Showbiz, guitarist and songwriter Scott Gorham explained: "It has been a goal of mine [to keep the spirit of Thin Lizzy alive].

"Phil died this year 30 years ago. It is my aim that he is not forgotten. I don't think he ever will be. It's my way of hoping that he doesn't. That's why we are doing these five shows. We keeping using the word 'celebrate' Phil's death and it's horrible word to use, but we want to pay homage to my buddy."

Elsewhere on the evening, the American rock band blink-182 - who formed in 1992 - were handed the Icon Award, with vocalist Mark Hoppus saying he remains grateful for the support of the band's loyal fanbase.

The 44-year-old star said: "This is a dream come true - blink has been through so much and has worked so hard.

"We are very fortunate after all that has happened with our band to come to the UK and people want to hear our band people stick with us and to be exited about the new album it's a gigantic blessing."

Another big winner on the night was Frank Carter, who was given the Spirit of Punk gong, one year after he launched Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes' debut album 'Blossom'.

Meanwhile, Kerrang! Editor James McMahon opened the ceremony by dedicating the awards ceremony to Lemmy, who founded and fronted the rock band Motorhead.

The heavy metal icon passed away in December last year, aged 70.

A select list of winners from the 2016 Kerrang! Awards:

Kerrang! Legend:

Iron Maiden

Kerrang! Hero:

Thin Lizzie

The Icon Award:

blink-182

Spirit of Punk:

Frank Carter

Best Event:

You Me At Six - The Ghost Inside Benefit Show

Best British Band:

Asking Alexandria

Best British Newcomer:

Creeper

Best International Newcomer:

Cane Hill

Best Track:

'All Time Low' - Missing You

Best Live Band:

BABYMETAL

Best Album:

'No Devotion' - Permanence

Best International Band:

A Day to Remember

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