Have you seen the John Lewis Christmas advert? Well of course you have!

Every year Britain awaits their infamous advert to signal that the festive period is upon us.

This year the retailer also held a competition which challenged aspiring singers to record their own version of the track featured on the advert, “Sonnet” by Richard Ashcroft.

The winner of the contest, which took place on TikTok, would get the chance to record their own version of the song to be featured on the advert on Christmas Day.

We are so excited to say that our very own Mel Raeburn won the competition!!!

Mel began as one of our fundraisers when she was home from her university studies, and is still a valued member of our team now that she has finished her degree.

Mel is a fundraiser at Circus Starr.

Alongside her role here she regularly performs with a band in Manchester.  She also records covers on her TikTok page, so the competition was something that she wanted to be part of.

“When I saw the competition I knew I definitely wanted to enter! After seeing the advert, which is based on sisters, I decided to layer harmonies on my version which I think is what gave me the edge in the end.

I read the email saying that I had won when I was at work and I just couldn’t believe it! There were so many amazing entries from such talented singers, so to be chosen as the winner is such an honour.”

Mel recording her version of ‘Sonnet’.

Mel has had a whirlwind experience since finding out she was the winner.

“I got to go to London and work on my version of the song with an amazing team. From the creative side of things to actually recording the track – everything has just been incredible!”

Mel’s song is released on 19^th December, and the advert featuring her version will be paired on ITV on Christmas day around 7.15pm.

Mel singing in London.

“It is honestly a dream come true! It doesn’t feel real to me right now. I have had such a wonderful time. It is such an amazing opportunity, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”

Everyone at Circus Starr is so proud of our super starr Mel, we know that this Christmas will be extra special for her and we wish her all the success in the world.