A TEACHING assistant in Clitheroe has recorded her first album in aid of the Salvation Army.

Laura Smithies, 34, who works at St James CE Primary School, has sung all her life in clubs, at weddings and charity functions whilst also organising the school choir.

The mum-of-two worked alongside The Grand to produce her 13-track CD which has gone on sale in shops and schools across the town.

Laura, who has lived in Clitheroe for 20 years, said: “I absolutely loved recording the CD and even though it took over a year to organise, it was such a great experience.

“The Salvation Army does outstanding work in the town and this is my way of recognising that and helping them as much as possible.

“They are often forgotten and seem old fashioned and out dated but people are always surprised to hear of all the fantastic work they do, both at home and abroad.

“My mum remembers them helping her family when her and her nine brothers and sisters were very young.

“I’m very grateful to The Grand for helping me with making the CD and I hope they all sell so I can donate £2,500 to charity.”

Included on the CD are cover songs of ‘Dead Ringer For Love’ by Meatloaf, ‘Closest Thing to Crazy’ by Katie Melua and ‘Next to me’ by Emelie Sande.

The album is currently on sale for £5 and also includes a performance of ‘You Raise Me Up’ by the St James school choir.

Elizabeth Smith, Corps Officer at Clitheroe Salvation Army, said: “It’s a beautiful CD and she has an absolutly fantastic voice.

“We are very grateful that she has chosen to donate the money to us and it will go a long way to helping people in need in our area.”