13-year-old’s Christmas song raises money for Bognor charity

Barty Hawkins recorded his version of ancient Christmas carol O Come, O Come, Emmanuel last year and raised over £1,100 for My Sisters’ House.

This year the 13-year-old has done a modern twist on Silent Night/Hallelujah and is hoping to raise £2,000 for the charity.

Barty, a year-nine student at Felpham Community College (FCC), said: “I literally sang before I could talk! I used to sing my reading books instead of just reading them, I think because it made it more enjoyable and fun!

“I love to sing and I wanted to do something to help people who are struggling, especially after the lockdowns.

“My Sisters’ House is really important to me because when Julie Budge (chief executive) came to talk at church, I realised that troubles can come to anyone in any walk of life and they just need a bit of help and care to set them back on the right path.

“It could be my aunt or sister who needs some support.”

Barty recorded the single at home with production being done by his dad, Simon, and brother, Monty, a year-12 student at FCC.

My Sisters’ House supports women who are living with or are in recovery from domestic abuse and other forms of abuse or from addictions.

To watch the video of Barty’s single and donate to the fundraiser visit localgiving.org/fundraising/bartycarol2020

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