Bradford band Talk to Angels have released a Christmas single to raise funds for the homeless.

The band have recorded a version of A Fairytale Of New York, the classic festive hit by The Pogues and Kirsty MacColl, with the proceeds going to homeless shelter St George’s Crypt in Leeds.

The organisation, which marks its 80th anniversary this year, provides care and support for homeless and vulnerable people across the region, including Bradford.

Talk to Angels, which includes Mickey Dale, keyboard player with Bradford band Embrace, recently did a concert at St George’s Crypt, and helped out serving hot meals.

“Every year we do a Christmas gig, and this year someone suggested that we donate proceeds to St George’s Crypt,” said Mickey.

“Usually we give out 100 copies of our CD to the first through the door at our Christmas gig but this time we decided to do a charity single. A Fairytale Of New York is our favourite Christmas song so it seemed the obvious choice.

“We had a look round the Crypt and saw the superb work they do. It’s not just about providing shelter and food, it’s also about helping people get back into work and re-build their lives.”

The single has already raised £230 and the band plan to raise more funds from a concert at Milo in Leeds on Thursday, December 23. “All proceeds from ticket sales and merchandise will go to the Crypt,” said Mickey.

Talk to Angels vocalist Craig Kaye added: “Christmas is a time where so much money gets wasted on unnecessary things. It would be amazing if people directed a bit of that towards those in need or without shelter.”

Craig formed Talk to Angels with Chris Robbins and Jamie Lofthouse after meeting at school at the age of 15. Mickey came on board after doing some studio work with the band.

Two years ago Chris was involved in a road accident in America, where the band were touring. He suffered multiple injuries after being in collision with a car and was on life support in hospital for several days.

  • A Fairytale of New York is available as a download from talktoangels.co.uk/store. The video is on youtube.com. Tickets for the charity concert are available on (0113) 2457101.