The guitar Dan

Singer songwriter Dan Webster, of Huntington, York, was inspired by the campaign to compose a song called Billy, about a nine-year-old boy he knew from his childhood, who tragically died.

The 27-year-old said the experience of his death has helped him to relate to the plight of parents who have to travel miles out of York to visit their sick children.

The chorus of the song goes "There's an angel watching over us" and Dan hopes it will mobilise more people to get involved in fundraising.

Our appeal aims to transform high dependency paediatric care on York Hospital's children's ward.

By raising £300,000 we can improve life for the sickest children going into hospital. The money will fund two life-saving high-dependency rooms with new, specialised equipment.

Dan, who will perform his song at the forthcoming fundraising spectacular, Angel Aid, at the Tap & Spile, in Monkgate, York, on November 19, said the campaign was extremely important.

"The song is all based on my experiences," he said.

"The memory of that emotion is what I drew on, but it got me thinking that there are people in York going through the trauma of their children being really ill.

"By playing this song and donating a bit of money I feel I'm contributing to the solution. I hope others do the same."

Angel Aid will include performances from both acoustic and rock acts.

Stealer, one of the city's top cover bands, who play classics from the likes of Thin Lizzy, AC/DC, and The Who, have been booked to headline the event.

The night is great news for ale drinkers as a unique beer - called Guardian Angel - is also being brewed by specially for the event.

Tickets cost £5 and can be obtained from behind the bar at the Tap & Spile. All proceeds will go towards our appeal. For more information, phone the pub on 01904 656158.

Dan said: "I'm really pleased that I've been asked to play for Angel Aid. Stealer are an awesome band - it's going to be a great night and a lot of fun. Hopefully we can raise a lot of money."