MUSICIANS are calling on Barrovians to buy a download of their Christmas charity single to reach the UK Top 40. 

Band in Dystopia are asking people to buy an MP3 download of the single Light a Candle from December 15 to 21.

Last year, Band in Dystopia collaborated with nine local singers and the South Lakes Rock School Rock & Pop Choir on an original Christmas single and music video to raise money for four charities in the Barrow area covering food, shelter, care and mental health.

This community-driven musical collaboration has been dubbed 'Barrow’s answer to Band-Aid'.

"Just 3,000 MP3 downloads is all it takes to get in the charts," said one of the singers, John Rennie.

"It's very doable but we need the help of fellow Barrovians. We're asking the people of Barrow and Furness to buy an mp3 download of Light a Candle by Band in Dystopia on Amazon or iTunes for just 99p.

"Streaming won't do it. It's the bought downloads that make the difference. With just a few thousand needed for a chart position, each and every download really will count."

The group is donating all download proceeds to the same local charities they supported last year, including Barrow Foodbank, Mind-in-Furness, Furness Homeless Support Group and St Mary's Hospice.

"How amazing would it be to have Barrow's Band-Aid in the Radio 1 chart countdown for Christmas?" said John.

"This is a shout-out to Barrovian music lovers who want a positive story about Barrow and want to support their community. We've already received a lot of support from the people of Barrow. Everyone is getting ready to buy and share on Friday 15th. We have to believe."

In 2022, the group raised £6,025 for Barrow Foodbank, Mind in Furness, Furness Homeless Support Group and St Mary’s Hospice. 

To contribute to the fundraiser, click the link here.