A former deputy newspaper editor turned author has scored a unique double at the American Barry Awards.

Stephen Booth, (50), has won the prize for Best British Crime Novel for the second consecutive year – making him the first person to scoop the title twice in the history of the competition.

The former Worksop Guardian journalist’s second novel, Dancing with the Virgins, beat many household names in UK crime writing, and follows the success of his debut novel, Black Dog, which took the Barry last year.

He said: “To win this award when I’m up against my heroes and heroines is just extraordinary.

“I’m proof that you can do it, dreams can come true!”

Stephen’s third book, Blood on the Tongue, was released earlier this year and his fourth book, Blind to the Bones, will hit the shelves in April.

Stephen gave up his job as deputy editor of the Worksop Guardian 18 months ago to become a full-time writer, after previously fitting his ‘hobby’ into evenings and weekends.

He began his career as a reporter on the Wilmslow Advertiser in Lancashire, later working for the Barnsley Chronicle Group.

He joined the Worksop Guardian as a chief reporter in 1986 and became deputy editor in 1993.