By Sarah Newstead

Last updated at 10:23, Friday, 12 December 2008

A Cumbrian drama teacher is putting the swing into Christmas with her fundraising CD of big band songs.

Claire Mattinson

Claire Mattinson, of Oughterside, near Aspatria, is hoping her Claire Swings Christmas soundtrack will boost the funds of her youth performing group, Harlequin Performing Arts.

“Last year I did a CD for my mum and dad,” said 23-year-old Claire. “People who had heard it kept asking me if I was going to do another one, so I decided I would to raise funds for the kids.”

The 65 children who attend Claire’s youth choir, dance and drama groups at Prospect village hall are in need of costumes, and proceeds from the sale of the CD will go towards the theatrical outfits.

She added: “The CD has gone down really well. Since I recorded the songs people’s responses have been overwhelming.”

Performance is in Claire’s blood.

“My parents were children’s entertainers. From the age of nine, I used to go with them and help out.”

Cumbrian Elvis impersonator George G Memphis is also Claire’s uncle and helped her record the CD in his attic studio.

“It’s all cover versions of people like Judy Garland. There’s songs such as Santa Baby and Let It Snow.”

Claire set up Harlequins in September after youngsters in the area found it difficult to access performance groups close to home.

“The local children were out in the village, walking the streets. I thought it would be great to set up a group. It’s so nice for them to be involved in something, to learn lines and perform. It’s confidence building.”

To buy a copy, at £3, contact Claire on 016073 21545.

First published at 05:18, Friday, 12 December 2008
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk