Wirral Autism Together band The Beathovens are set to release their Christmas single, Warmed Hearts and Wine on December 12.

The seven-man band have been around for almost 20 years and are the only band in the UK were all members are on the autism spectrum and living in full time care.

The Beathovens have a history of beating expectations and breaking stereotypes by writing their own songs and performing alongside Jools Holland and Bob Geldof while having a slot at Glastonbury.

Meeting weekly to practice at a church in Bromborough under the guidance of performing arts specialists from Autism Together.

The track Warmed Hearts and Wine was written by the band following a talk about Christmas and winter.

Lead singer AJ, Alan Jolliffe said: “Having autism means I find it difficult to communicate with anyone.

“When we are on stage we communicate with everyone. Music lets me be who I want to be.

“Having autism makes you not be able to do some things, but in The Beathovens we are saying we are here, this is who we are.”

Autism Together activity manager, Dean Ravera said: “Getting iTunes distribution is a huge step forward for us.

“This is a group of people who’ve come together through a love of music and created their own, unique, art form – and it’s genuinely carrying a message about what’s achievable by people with autism.”

For more information visit http://www.autismtogether.co.uk/cvs-performing-arts/