Stephen Sutton: Watch the new single in memory of inspirational teenager
A new single has been released in memory of inspirational teenager Stephen Sutton by the band who helped him tick a dream off his bucket list.
Four years ago, the Pandemonium Drummers group wowed the world at the opening ceremony for the 2012 Olympic Games.
Watching on that evening was Burntwood teenager Stephen, who went on to raise more than £1 million for Teenage Cancer Trust before he died in 2014.
His positivity in the face of adversity captured the hearts of thousands across the world and his efforts to tick items off his 'bucket list' were followed keenly on social media by those who knew his story.
At number 24 on that list was 'to drum in front of a huge crowd', which he got the chance to do with the Pandemonium Drummers ahead of the 2013 UEFA Champions League Final.
Now, the group has dedicated its first single, called 'Champion', to Stephen.
Proceeds will be donated to the Teenage Cancer Trust.
Following Stephen's tragic death, his mother Jane has taken on the mantle of heroic fundraiser for the Teenage Cancer Trust, which helped Stephen along his four year battle.
Over the weekend, she spoke in front of a crowd of 37,000 at CarFest North at Bolesworth Castle in Cheshire to help promote the Pandemonium Drummers single.
She documented her day on social media, telling the 1.3 million fans of the 'Stephen's Story' Facebook page that the experience was 'daunting but exciting' before taking to the stage with Chris Evans, who was hosting the event.
She posted afterwards: "Wow – I never expected this to be happening today."
On the Facebook page, she added: "Stephen was invited to become the only honorary Pandemonium Drummer – something I know meant so much to him.
"Looking back at Stephen's bucket list, No.10, was to 'write, record and release a charity single with my old band'.
"Unfortunately time ran out for Stephen before he was able to complete this item, but I'm sure he would have been thrilled to see this wonderful single, written by one of the drummers Denis Fernando, released today.
"Two of the fabulous lead singers are young women who have been supported by Teenage Cancer Trust – Melissa Cavanagh (who sang in Boy George's team in The Voice earlier this year) and newcomer Gina Maloney.
"As the Rio Games approach, the Pandemonium Drummers have brought together the spirit of Stephen's Story and the spirit of London 2012 to celebrate the 'Champion' in us all.
"By downloading, you'll be helping to raise money for Teenage Cancer Trust while at the same time enjoying a fabulous song and adding to Stephen's current total which stands in excess of £5.6million."
To purchase Champion, visit Amazon, Google Play or iTunes and search 'Pandemonium Drummers Champion'.
