A SINGER-songwriter has released a single to raise awareness and money for a domestic violence charity in Bolton, ahead of a special concert to be held later this month.

James Holt, 28, from Smithills has dedicated the song to long time friend and fan Gay Wharton, who was knocked down and killed last year.

The former mayoress of Bolton was a patron of the charity Fortalice, and they both planned to release it together in support of the charity.

The song ‘One Hand Strikes the Other’ powerfully explores an abusive relationship between two people from an outsider’s perspective, to show we all have a duty of responsibility when faced with such violence.

James Holt explained: “I had already written the song last year and showed Gay Wharton, knowing she was a patron of the charity.

“Her passing made me more determined to do it.

“She is the reason I chose Fortalice to raise money for.

“I have friends who have used their service, and with the context of the song and it being a Bolton charity, it’s close to my heart.”

James’ friends will also join him at the concert, including Toria Wooff offering backing vocals, At Home With Lilac, and Mike Roberts, who will play supporting sets.

There were plans to live stream the song and raise money last year, but James said now seemed more fitting, so that a physical show could go ahead.

Speaking about the single, Gill Smallwood, chief executive of Fortalice, said: “On behalf of Fortalice I would like to thank James for kindly writing and producing the impactful song to help us raise funds to keep victims safe from domestic abuse."

The charity concert that James will be headlining, will be held at The Rose and Monkey Hotel, Manchester on October 28.

Tickets for the concert can be bought from: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/james-holt-the-rose-and-monkey-hotel-in-aid-of-fortalice-tickets-189907718097

Alternatively, money can be donated to Fortalice via the Just Giving page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/james-holt-fortalice

You can also download the single from: https://ffm.to/ohsto