Hamilton’s very own Arkells were honoured with a special achievement award last night at the 34th SOCAN Awards in Toronto.

The group was recognized with the SOCAN National Achievement Award, which the organization said was for their outstanding impact on the Canadian music landscape.

Arkells’ lead singer, Max Kerman, joined his bandmates on stage to accept the award for domestic impact.

In his acceptance speech, Kerman paid tribute to Allyson Van Niekerk, a dedicated fan who recently died of breast cancer.

He said the Hamilton band met her at a concert a few years ago, where she danced with them on stage.

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