STARS of the BBC’s Bargain Hunt have released a Christmas single for charity.

Charles Hanson, Charlie Ross, Philip Serrell and James Braxton have come together to raise money for Children in Need by covering the classic Leroy Anderson track made famous by Bing Crosby and the Ronettes, Sleigh Ride.

The project came together thanks to record producer Grahame Corbyn, whose son Jack performs as a solo act backed by members of Squeeze - the band in which Jools Holland rose in prominence as the keyboard player in the late 1970s.

James Braxton, who lives in Herstmonceux and owns the 16th-century Lamb Inn in Wartling, near Hailsham, said: “[Grahame] is a very talented music man.

“His son Jack has suffered incredible migraines for decades, and when he met Charles Hanson mentioned that he wanted to create a Christmas song for Great Ormond Street Hospital - then the idea developed to cover a broader scope with Children in Need.

“He kept on badgering, and then it suddenly gained momentum.

“Everything just fell into place.”

The four antique experts, who have appeared on popular auction programmes such as Antiques Road Trip, Bargain Hunt and Flog It! on the BBC, banded together to record the single at Metropolis Studios in Chiswick High Road in London.

It is the studio in which Queen’s legendary Bohemian Rhapsody was recorded.

While Mr Braxton is the first to admit his group’s experience as musicians was limited, it did not stop the antiques experts from giving it their best.

He said: “I was in the choir when I was 11, and a lovely chap taught me guitar between the ages of 13-15 - but that’s all the experience with music I’ve had.

“My contribution is on the chorus – we are all singing on the track, but only Charlie Ross is really a competent singer.

“Fortunately, Jack and Grahame knew our limitations, and it does help if four of you are doing it and you know them well.

“They really brought out the best from us.

“To say we were supported is quite an understatement.”

The single, which is out now, will be accompanied by a music video which sees the bargain hunters in a completely new light.

Mr Braxton added: “I think people will be surprised - the video has a Rocky Horror kind of vibe at the beginning.

“If it’s sufficiently irritating and catchy enough, perhaps we’ll be hearing it again next year.”

You can buy the single online and in record shops.