Schoolboy makes CD in aid of charity helping pupils with special education needs

The 12-year-old musician has produced his own CD and is performing a number of gigs to raise money for the charity Stand Up Portsmouth, which provides support to local families who have SEN children. 

Harrison was inspired to raise money after witnessing first-hand the challenges his brother, Elliott, aged 10, has experienced living with autism and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).

'˜My brother has autism and so I wanted to make this CD to raise money and awareness about children who have to overcome these challenges,' explained Harrison.

Mum Louise Etherington said: '˜He wanted to do something that raised money for a good cause but also meant something to us as a family. We know the family who run Stand Up and it is a charity close to our hearts.'.

After performing at Victorious Festival the last two years, Harrison decided to go into Mayfield Recording Studios to cut his first CD. A keen vocalist, pianist and guitarist the generous youngster was adamant that any profits from the CD should be used in support of the charity.

'˜I have raised £60 so far from the sales but I would really like to hit at least the £100 mark. The CDs cost £3 to buy and can be bought via my Facebook account,' said Harrison.

Additionally, the tracks can also be purchased from any of Harrison's gigs.

'˜We come from a musical family as his grandfather and uncle both play in a band. Harrison regularly plays at Jags@119 American diner in Southsea and he also has a gig coming up at the Thatched House pub in Milton,' said Louise.

Harrison hopes that any money raised can help ensure children with SEN get the support they need.

'˜It is a serious situation and hopefully any money raised can help provide support to families,' he explained.

Louise added: '˜I am really proud of what Harrison is doing. We have been fortunate with the fact Elliott is coping in mainstream school but we appreciate the difficulties experienced by families who have children with SEN.' 

People can listen to Harrison's tracks and purchase the CD via his Facebook page www.facebook.com/harrison.etherington.311