A heartwarming festive song written and performed by a musician with terminal cancer is set to raise thousands for charity.
Pete Richardson penned Another Christmas five years ago and has released it to support East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
The single, which he describes as a ‘story of love and hope’, is available via all platforms and 100% of royalties will go to EACH.
He also has a separate JustGiving page for donations and that alone has already raised nearly £2,500.
“This is going to be my last Christmas, so I decided it’s now or never,” said Pete, who has cancer of the oesophagus and pelvis, as well as in his lymph nodes.
“I’d almost given up but it’s something I’ve wanted to do for so long and I wasn’t going to let cancer stop me.
“I actually wrote the song five years ago and hoped it would be performed by a big star like Michael Bublé.
“I wrote to him but unfortunately that didn’t happen, so I performed the vocals myself and we’ve managed to get the single out in time for Christmas.
“I wanted to do it for a children’s charity and that’s why I chose EACH.
“I had such a wonderful childhood myself and, for me, life is all about children.
“I hope this song – a story of love and hope – helps make a difference and makes people smile. I’ve tried my best.”
Pete, 71, has always had a special relationship with music.
He started as a drummer and considered himself too shy to be a singer or front man.
He started writing music when his brother formed a band in the 1970s and, since then, has penned more than 50 songs.
“I love being in a studio and it’s a place to forget all your cares and worries,” said the former taxi driver, who lives in Aldringham, near Leiston.
“Nothing else matters, at that moment in time.
“I can’t read music and wouldn’t know one note from another. However, I know how it should sound and I’m very proud of the catalogue I’ve produced.”
Another Christmas was recorded at Arcade Studios, in Rayleigh, Essex, and produced by friend Pete Booker.
Nephew Scott Richardson played the bass and the female backing vocals were performed by Mr Booker’s wife, Sarah.
There is an accompanying music video which can be viewed via YouTube.
Another Christmas can be bought via all platforms, or you can make a donation via Pete’s JustGiving page.
