A GROUP of talented youngsters have formed a virtual band and recorded a cover song to raise funds for a charity.

Ashleigh Lovett, from Dovercourt, said she and her old university friends came together from across the UK and formed a virtual band to beat the lockdown blues and raise money for TeenTalk in Harwich.

The 23-year-old, who works at Tricky Escape rooms, in High Street, Dovercourt, said they all studied commercial music performance at Canterbury Christ Church University in Kent.

She said: “We are from different year groups and since three years ago, when everybody moved back home or across the country, we haven’t had a chance to perform together.

“Most of us used to perform together, but this band came together since the quarantine.

“In our current circumstances, we have been struggling in isolation and we came up with the idea to help us and help others and inspire other people to do the same.”

Ashleigh, who used to be involved with TeenTalk when she was a teenager, said: “We have covered this song in honour of Teen Talk to raise vital funds to keep running online activities and support for young people with the aim to keeping spirits high in these difficult times.

“This song cover is to inspire other young people to get involved in music and spread happiness.

“We hope to raise more than £1,000 during the quarantine, which would help the organisation especially during this time.

“It’s hard as many young people are struggling with mental health.

“TeenTalk can help young people who are alone.

“We want to encourage young people not to get down in this moment, keep spirits high and keep safe.”

The talented musicians recorded their parts separately and put it all together, making sure it all synced perfectly.

Fern Lovett, activity and community manager for TeenTalk, said “We were over the moon they chose us to raise money for us and allow us to carry out our sessions online.

“It’s brilliant young people are getting involved to help other young people.

“We’re really pleased and proud of them all.”

Singers are Sophie Peers, 23, from Kent, Amber Dale, 23 from East Sussex, Georgia Hamilton,26, from Kent on bass is Ben Rutherford, 24, from Dartford, on drums is Hector Johnson, 22, from London.

On guitar is Ashleigh Lovett, 23, from Harwich and on percussion is Chay Bellingham, 24, from Wales.

To donate for TeenTalk, visit bit.ly/3cMd2e6.