First Christmas single already out

15/08/2008

A businessman in Halifax has fulfilled a life-long dream: to release a Christmas single.

Jon Hoyle, co-owner of the Piece Hall's Friendly Dragon, has released a Christmas charity song, appropriately titled Friendly Dragon. It may seem premature, given that it's officially still summertime, but Hoyle couldn't be happier: "I'm ecstatic about the record," he said.

The 50-year-old found that it took only an hour to record the tune's words and music. He claims the song was inspired by a walk around Hardcastle Crags on Boxing Day during last year's Christmas party season.

He said: "When I was walking around Hardcastle Crags I looked up at the sky and imagined the friendly green dragon flying through the sky and wondered what he would do and where he would go."

The money from the single will be donated to the Skillshop at Hanson Lane, Halifax. The charity provides opportunities for people with disabilities and learning difficulties. Bill Pearce, Skillshop's manager, said: "We are absolutely over the moon and it is just a lovely gesture."