Yeah hes from up north from where I live. He started off as a blues influenced rock guitarist in Thin Lizzy who were all influenced by Hendrix etc. Then in the 80s he made the switch to full-on blues and was mainly influenced by SRV at the time but also the others you mentioned. Hes influenced by Celtic music. He released a single, I think it was on a film soundtrack, I cant remember the title of the song but it has violins and guitar solos at the same time. Its mad.

Listen to Gary Moores cover of SRVs 'The Sky Is Crying'. Its much longer but is alot better. More emotional I reckon.