Brave Calderdale singer given hours to live as a baby set to wow crowds at sell out show

Annabelle Riley, who was born 11-weeks prematurely and suffered a life-threatening brain haemorrhage, has always dreamed of becoming a singer.

Last year she made her stage debut alongside mum Caroline at the annual Kirklees and Calderdale Charity Lunch (KACCL).

Now 19, Annabelle and her mum will take to the stage once again to bring some festive cheer to the annual business event, aiming to exceed last year’s staggering fundraising total of £32,000.

Mum Caroline, who is just as involved in the choir as her daughter, said: “Since joining the Orange Box Choir, Annabelle has really found a sense of belonging in both her local and wider communities. She has something to look forward to and be excited about aside from her family time and studies at college.

“Annabelle illustrates that there is so much ability within disability. Alongside the team at Orange Box Choir, Annabelle is able to reach for the stars and take on these incredible opportunities like performing for a second time at the KACCL event.”

Following her premature birth, Annabelle spent three months in a Special Care Baby unit, during which time she was given mere hours to live after suffering a brain haemorrhage.

Annabelle continues to require support from her mother, grandparents and brother Fraser as well as a number of healthcare professionals at their specially adapted home in Brighouse.

She has honed her musical skills through the Orange Box Choir, a beneficiary of the KACCL event, allowing her to develop her talents as well as providing some incredible experiences.

This year’s lunch will provide much-needed funds for the Orange Box Choir in association with Square Chapel Arts Centre and Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice.

Both organisations continue to provide life-changing support and services to children and their families within the community.

The event is made possible by the KACCL organising committee, comprised of businesses from across the region including JR Group UK, Chadwick Lawrence, Stafflex, Faith PR, Brug Consultancy, Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice, Cedar Court Hotels, Hellomint, Eastwood and Partners and headline sponsors Crowther Chartered Accountants.