Music legend Tony Christie named first Sheffield Hospitals Charity celebrity ambassador

In a statement, Sheffield Hospitals Charity said the 77-year-old singer, who is most well known for his hit single (Is this the way to) Amarillo' will take up his new ambassadorial role in order to lend his voice to their cause.

He said: "I am so proud and honoured to be Sheffield Hospitals Charity's new ambassador.

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"Sheffield is such a special place and I have certainly never forgotten my South Yorkshire roots, so when the opportunity to get involved with this special charity came about, I jumped at the chance.

"I will be doing all that I can to help further their cause and I would encourage you all to get involved in their fabulous work."

He said he wanted to do his part by giving something back, looking at the dedication of the Sheffield Teaching Hospitals throughout the pandemic.

"2021 will be a special year for me personally as I mark 50 years since the release of 'Is this the way to) Amarillo', but together, let's make 2021 a special year for the people of Sheffield," he said.

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Gareth Aston, Chief Executive of Sheffield Hospitals Charity said: "Tony is a music legend, there are no two ways about it. Having a person like that on board is an enormous boost to all of us and we are proud that Tony has chosen Sheffield Hospitals Charity as his charity of choice.

"But I know that, for Tony, this was personal. He is a local lad and he loves and cares very much for the people of Sheffield."