The London Hospices Choir, featuring Royal Trinity Hospice, has beaten other good causes to become the top charity single in the race for Christmas number 1. Their single, a cover of the Mike and the Mechanics hit “The Living Years”, was supported by celebrities including Gareth Malone and James Norton.

The single was released on 16th December 2016 and initially charted at number 1 before eventually falling to number 81 in the charts. However, the song ended the week at number 1 in physical sales and was the second highest entry in the official charts.

The choir of 300 patients, families, staff and volunteers from 18 hospices was formed to raise money and awareness of the hospice movement. The single featured original vocalist Paul Carrack, who also appeared on Celebrity Mastermind on 27^th December 2016 in support of Royal Trinity Hospice.

Jim Hawkins, music producer behind the choir, said “With all individual outcomes considered and combined, our project has created further awareness, publicity and celebration of the UK's hospice movement. Mission Accomplished!”

The cover of the classic track was recorded at the world famous Abbey Road Studios and the moving music video was filmed at Royal Trinity Hospice, under the direction of top Hollywood film director Annabel Jankel.

All profits from the sale of the single will be divided between the 18 hospices involved, helping them to support those reaching the end of their lives, and their families.