Schoolboy records song for West Sussex domestic abuse charity

A schoolboy, who ‘has loved singing since before he could talk’, has recorded a Christmas song to raise £2,000 for a domestic abuse charity.
ks190677-1 Bog Song for My Sister House  phot kate Song writer and performer Barty who has raised money for My Sisters House, here with Julie Budge.ks190677-1 SUS-191012-202205008ks190677-1 Bog Song for My Sister House  phot kate Song writer and performer Barty who has raised money for My Sisters House, here with Julie Budge.ks190677-1 SUS-191012-202205008
ks190677-1 Bog Song for My Sister House phot kate Song writer and performer Barty who has raised money for My Sisters House, here with Julie Budge.ks190677-1 SUS-191012-202205008

Having heard about how Bognor Regis-based charity My Sister’s House supports victims of domestic abuse across West Sussex during a talk at his church, Barty Hawkins, 12, decided he wanted to raise money to help it continue.

He said: “I had not heard of them before but I thought it was a really good cause which I would like to help. I’ve always loved singing. I want to be an opera singer. This wasn’t about getting my name out, I just really wanted to help.”

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With the help of his dad, Simon, a music producer, Felpham Community College student Barty recorded his version of ancient Christmas carol O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.

My Sister’s House CEO Julie Budge said Barty’s response to her talk at St Mary’s Church was ‘simply amazing’.

She said: “We are humbled and so excited to be chosen as Barty’s charity of the year. It’s the most heartwarming, amazing song by this 12-year-old. Get the tissues ready as it reaches your heart.”

Barty’s mum Sandra spoke of the pride she has for her son who ‘has always loved singing’. She said: “He has loved singing since before he could talk. He does drama and is in the school choir. When reading, he used to sing the lines to whatever tune he fancied.”

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It isn’t the first time Barty and his family have raised money for charity through music. In 2013 and 2014 they raised a combined £2,500 for Compassion International, which supports women and children. However, after Simon suffered a brain haemorrhage, they haven’t been able to make a song again until now. The new song is available on Spotify, iTunes and Apple Music and has so far raised £475. To help Barty reach his £2,000 target donate at https://localgiving.org/fundraising/o-come/.

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