Schoolchildren sing their hearts out for charity

Reporter SIX Northumberland schools united to sing their hearts out for a very special cause.

Children from the Seaton Valley cluster schools supported local charity the Sunshine Fund in an event dubbed “Singing Spreads Sunshine” at the Whitley Bay Playhouse.

Amanda Bennet, head of Seaton Sluice First School, organised the event after her school won a prestigious award for their singing group. She decided to host a concert and ask other schools in the area to get involved.

180 kids belted out sunshine-themed songs on the night including an original song written by Amanda called Spread the Sunshine, which was inspired by a little boy who was helped by the Sunshine Fund in the past.

Ross Phillipson passed away when he was just two years old and his mum Caroline and his brothers were in the audience and were incredibly moved to hear the song written in memory of their special little boy.

The Sunshine Fund dedicate their time to fundraising to buy specialist equipment for disabled children in the North East and they are almost at the end of their Go Bananas campaign this month where they aim to raise £60,000.

So when Amanda decided she wanted to help out a charity with this concert, she knew which one to choose.

Choirs from Seghill First School, Seaton Delaval First School, Holywell Village First School, Seaton Sluice First School, Whytrig Middle School, Seaton Sluice Middle School and Astley High School all took part.

Amanda’s original song was recorded back in May at Tyne Met College and performed by three students from each of the schools. The song focuses on spreading love, happiness and, of course, sunshine. The event raised funds for the charity and proceeds from the sale of the CD will also be donated to the Go Bananas campaign.

Amanda said: “I was absolutely over the moon and so proud of them. It was a night they will never forget. It was so great, I want to make it an annual event and hopefully continue to support the Sunshine Fund.”