Express & Star

West Bromwich Albion host band for charity single

A West Bromwich group has reunited after 25 years to release a new song and raise money for the Albion Foundation.

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Band members Elton McTaggart, Jason Kelly, Kerry Ebanks, Steve Briggs and Debbie Partridge.

Five-piece Wounded Spirit are to release their latest song '11Months3Weeks6Days' on March 24, with all profits from the single going to the football club's charity.

The band decided to make the generous move after being inspired by the charity's work.

They were put in touch with the Foundation through well-known fundraiser and Albion supporter 'Blind Dave' Heeley.

Almost all of the band have been Albion fans since the 70s, so were delighted when they were asked to film the charity record at their favourite club's home ground on Sunday.

Drummer Elton McTaggart said: "When they invited us to perform in the stands, and we were interviewed on the pitch – well it's what dreams are made of."

He added: "We hadn't played together for years because we all settled down and went down the family route. But it's great to play together again. We are like big kids."

Their new track is now available to pre-order on iTunes, Amazon and Spotify, while their video recorded at the Hawthorns is on the band's YouTube page.

Delighted to support the Albion Foundation, lead singer Jason Kelly, added: "We didn't realise before what great work they do. And they've been absolutely fantastic – they've supported us every step of the way.

"Also West Bromwich Albion Football Club again have been unbelievable. It just shows what they do for the local community which is fantastic."

Rob Lake, Albion Foundation director, said: "It's been brilliant. The guys came to speak to me a few weeks back about doing this video and about all the profits going to the Foundation.

"We got chatting to them – they're great guys and it's great song, so we wanted to help them out as much as possible."

The band is not only hoping to raise money, but also interest among the next generation in forming music groups of their own.