A musician from Weymouth is set to release a new song to support vulnerable people in the community.
Jamie Pinnow's new song I Think You Oughta Know will be available to stream from today, highlighting current economic issues including the winter fuel allowance and the cost of living crisis.
This follows news that millions of pensioners across the country are set to lose winter fuel payments after an attempt to block the cuts failed in Parliament in September.
Singer and guitarist Jamie was inspired to write the song after seeing the "devastating" effect the two national crises are having on the elderly and vulnerable.
He said: "It's dreadful. I remember one time I was watching TV and saw an elderly gentleman who said he had to choose either to eat or heat his flat.
"He looked so dejected that's when I decided to put the song out there to convey a message to others struggling that they aren't alone."
A percentage of the money earned from the single via streaming will be donated to the Weymouth-based Lantern Trust Charity which helps vulnerable and marginalised people in the Weymouth and Portland area.
READ MORE: Weymouth Lantern Trust transforms lives of homeless
Mike Graham, CEO of the Lantern trust, said: "Fundraising is essential in keeping up with the increased demands being placed on all of our services.
"Not only is it amazing that people care enough to raise funds for us but it also raises awareness of the Lanterns work and also the barriers our customers face in receiving support. A huge thank you to Jamie Pinnow for supporting our work."
Jamie has been creating music for 27 years, playing in venues across the UK such as The Cavern Club in Liverpool and recording at Abbey Road studios in London.
Following a stroke-related illness in 2016, he lost his home and business so he says he speaks from "bitter experience" when writing a song about hardship.
He adds: "It's not fair, there are people out there who have worked so hard all their lives that should be able to enjoy their retirement. Also families that are starting out aren't getting a fair chance in life.
“As a singer, I want to highlight struggles, make people listen and for them take something away from it. As someone who has truly been on his absolute uppers in the past, I really want to make some sort of difference, spread a message and show solidarity."
A single launch gig will take place at the Golden Lion in Weymouth on Sunday, October 13.
You can stay up to date with Jamie's music releases by following his Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/jamie.pinnow
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