FIRST there was Band Aid, then Live Aid.

And now talented youngsters at Newsome High School and Sports College have put their musical talents to good use to produce a charity CD – News Aid.

The school has opened a new recording studio and, following the Japanese earthquake and Tsunami in March, children and staff wanted to help out.

And among them are headboy and talented sportsman Jordan Higo whose vocals feature at the beginning and the end of the CD.

The school’s deputy headteacher Phil Pearson said: “When we saw the destruction and distress which the tsunami had caused in Japan we were all moved to want to do something to help, but what?

“The idea of this CD was born by the opening of our new recording facilities and “News Aid” is our launch project. It was the brainchild of English teacher Sam Croft.

“Young people and staff from our school have put their efforts together to produce our version of the well-known Ben E King song Stand By Me.

“We chose the song because we want everyone to know that we are standing by our friends in Japan even though we are so far away. I hope people enjoy it.”

The CD features vocals by cleaners and cooks at the school as well as teaching staff including headteacher Paul Gittins.

Jordan, whose falsetto tone features in the CD, plays rugby for Newsome Panthers under 16s squad and is also part of Huddersfield Giants scholarship scheme.

The CD it is already proving popular in the school and the community which the school serves with more than 100 copies already being snapped up for the £2 asking price.

As well as being the launch project for the school’s new recording studio facilities the CD is also part of the school’s aim at raising its profile for the performing arts.

A group of young performers from the school reached the finals of a national Rock Challenge competition and have been nominated in the arts category for the Examiner’s Community Awards.

The school has also recently formed its own choir and has been taking part in workshops with the Huddersfield Singers.

Mr Pearson said the school was keen to promote singing and voice particularly among boys at the school.

Anyone wanting to buy a copy of the CD can contact the school on 01484 226570 or buy it from local store Bargain Booze post office and newsagents at Newsome crossroads.