Beckenham choir covers song to support Brain Tumour Research

Sing Like You Mean It, a 46-member community choir based in Beckenham, has recorded a heartfelt cover of James Bay’s Hold Back the River to support Brain Tumour Research.

Some of the choir members have been personally affected by brain tumours. (Image: Brain Tumour Research) Seventeen of the choir’s members have been personally affected by brain tumours, which kill more children and adults under 40 than any other cancer.

Emma Alford, 41, from Bexleyheath, joined the choir after losing her mother, Sue Kidd MBE, to the disease.

She said: “I needed an outlet after Mum died and the choir came at the right time.

“What surprised me was how many other members had their own brain tumour stories.

“Altogether there are 17 of us with a personal connection. Suddenly I wasn’t alone with it.

“Singing this song together, knowing what it means to all of us, has been powerful.”

Sue Kidd MBE with her daughter Emma Alford. (Image: Brain Tumour Research) The single was released on streaming platforms on Friday, July 4, with all proceeds going to Brain Tumour Research.

It was recorded at London’s Church Studios, known for hosting artists such as Adele and Radiohead.

The choir was founded in 2023 by director and vocal coach Andy Gilbert, who has worked with artists including Raye and MNEK.

Andy said: “We wanted to create something with heart, and this song just resonated. It’s hopeful, emotional, and full of light.

“Every year we choose a cause to support, and this one felt especially close to home.”

The choir recorded the single at London’s Church Studios, which has hosted musical legends such as Adele and Radiohead. (Image: Brain Tumour Research) Among the members is Bromley-based psychotherapist Daniel Sherman, a songwriter and producer who co-wrote Top 10 hits for Lisa Scott-Lee.

Daniel lost his mother, brother, and sister to brain tumours over 25 years.

He said: “There’s a tragedy to what I’ve seen.

“The randomness and brutality of brain tumours is unlike anything else.

“This felt like a meaningful way to honour that, without being defined by it.

“The song is joyous, which feels important and it’s what people need.”

The choir was founded in 2023 by Andy Gilbert, who is a director and vocal coach. (Image: Brain Tumour Research) Brain Tumour Research said only one per cent of national cancer research funding has gone to brain tumours since 2002.

Charlie Allsebrook, community development manager for the charity, said: “This is a beautiful example of community in action.

“That so many choir members have been personally affected shows just how far-reaching and under-recognised brain tumours are.

“Projects like this don’t just raise vital funds—they help shine a light on a devastating disease that deserves far more attention.”

Brain Tumour Research supports research at dedicated UK centres and campaigns for increased investment to improve survival rates and treatment options.