Singing star Emeli Sande backs cancer charity CLAN's new lockdown appeal
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A NORTH-EAST born music superstar has given special backing to a local cancer charity’s new appeal.
Singer Emeli Sande has produced a video in support of CLAN Cancer Support’s new fundraiser, Here for You.
Alford-born Emeli is urging people to get behind the appeal to help CLAN continue its practical and emotional cancer support services.
The appeal urges people of the north and north-east to donate £10 or whatever they can afford to help CLAN continue to provide its services.
The charity said the lockdown has affected the emotional and practical support it provides to people affected by cancer. It is still providing telephone and online support, but it faces a huge deficit in funds having cancelled its key fundraising events.
After recording a music video for CLAN, Emeli said: "I am so happy to be involved in CLAN’s Here for You appeal.
"When I heard about the practical and emotional support they provide to people affected by cancer, I wanted to show my support straight away, especially as I know local organisations are so important in the north and north-east, particularly in rural areas like where I grew up.
"I have recorded my song, Next to Me, for CLAN as I believe music is such a powerful way to bring people together. The song is about being supported, being guided and having someone to rely on at all times. This is what CLAN does every day.
"People who are affected by cancer at this time are likely to be very lonely, and hopefully this song will provide some comfort and remind them that caring support is out there."
The charity's CEO, Dr Colette Backwell, said: "As a local, community-based charity, we are pleased that despite her international stardom, Emeli took time to record her beautiful song for us. It is evident that she still has a strong connection with the north-east, and understands the importance of the work we do.
"Most of us know someone who has been affected by cancer, either having had a cancer diagnosis themselves or known a friend or family member who has faced cancer. CLAN is often the first place people come to when they receive the devastating news of a cancer diagnosis, and our professional team is able to help people make sense of their new situation."
In Moray CLAN has a presence in Buckie, Elgin, Lossiemouth and Forres. The CLAN Cancer Support phone number in Moray is 01343 544132.
Watch Emeli perform the song here.
