Sunderland singer raises more than £200 for NHS with garden performances during lockdown

Elaine Rennie, from Galashiels Road, Grindon, has been using the power of her voice to raise spirits along with vital cash for the NHS.

After feeling very low emotionally during the coronavirus lockdown, the 49-year-old decided to do something positive and began to sing outside each day in the hope of boosting morale in the community.

Thanks to the support of her neighbours, Elaine’s efforts have now raised £250 for for the NHS.

And on Thursday, April 16, the singer presented staff at Sunderland Royal Hospital with the cash when she performed outside of the hospital during the Clap for our Carers applause.

It has taken place over four consecutive weeks and sees people across the UK applaud to show appreciation for health professionals and key workers, during the pandemic.

The Sunderland mum has also written a special song in honour of the NHS as they fight coronavirus, called ‘we're gonna kick down the lock down til it's a knock down.’

Elaine said: “People have been so supportive with gifts and presents and money and thank you cards saying that I have lifted everyone’s spirits at this time.

“Singing at the hospital was so emotional as staff are risking their lives to save us all.

“They were so grateful for £250 I raised for them.

“I'm going to record the NHS song and every penny from it will go straight to the NHS.”

Elaine, who says she has spent years singing professionally in nightclubs around the region, first sang from her garden on Good Friday and has continued singing a variety of songs from around 5pm each day since.

But now she says she will be continuing to singing from her garden each day with performances live streamed on Facebook.

She said: “I've a huge following now of thousands on Facebook who can still see me sing 5pm daily.

“I am hoping my singing will continue to cheer people up and I will also be taking song requests on Facebook.”

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