Erica are a well-known band in this part of the world.

Formed close to a decade ago, the band is made up of Winchcombe friends Dalton Woodward, Will Hall and Michael Long.

Erica so far have three albums to their name, including last year’s WhiteHorse, but this month are preparing for a unique release, featuring another local famous face.

“We’ve had a busy time writing new songs and for a couple of months have focusing in on a collaboration with Cheltenham based actor James Moore,” said lead singer and guitarist Dalton.

James Moore is best known for his role in the popular ITV programme ‘Emmerdale’.

He joined the cast in 2018, and last year won the National Television Award for Best Newcomer for his role as Ryan Stocks.

“We struck up a conversation with James on Twitter and talked about his passion for music and the fact he loves to play the drums,” explained fellow drummer Will.

“We invited him to join Erica in the studio for a jam, and he agreed to come along. That jam turned into the embryo of a song that then developed as the friendship did.”

“The new single is called ‘Not Alone’ and features James taking on Will’s roll of Erica drummer!” continued Michael.

“Dalton and James wrote the lyrics and it was a collective effort on the music, finally mixed and mastered by our producer, Dave Draper.

“It’s a lighter electronic pop sound than the usual Erica vibe and has a positive message about growing up, regardless of personal circumstances and also the complicated transition to adulthood.”

Proceeds from the single will be going to The National Children's Football Alliance charity.

The charity focuses on giving boys and girls a secure and safe environment in which to play football and develop and was founded by Paul Cooper – better known to fans of BBC Three’s ‘This Country’ as Martin Mucklowe and real-life father of stars Charlie and Daisy Cooper.

“Erica are the ‘unofficial' band for This Country,” explained Dalton, “having played on ‘WTAF’ (A This Country Podcast) on three occasions.”

Proceeds will also go to James’ chosen charity, Ataxia UK, who support people like James with ataxic cerebral palsy, which can affect balance, coordination and speech.

James added: “I’m so excited to be featured on the new Erica single. I love making music and collaborating with new people, it’s raising money for great causes, and I can’t wait for people to hear it.”

To keep up to date with Erica visit www.facebook.com/ericaband