AN ASPIRATION of many teenage bands has become reality for a group of Hagley students after getting signed by the man behind U2, Bob Marley and Frankie Goes To Hollywood.

H90, a 90s tribute band set up by Hagley Catholic High School’s head of music Fred Mallinson, are the latest to receive the support of legendary record producer Dave Robinson.

The group have surprised many in the industry, but maybe even more so the 16 pupils themselves, when they were handpicked to be the next project of the founder of Stiff Records.

Their fairy tale started while preparing for a tour of 15 primary schools at the end of the summer term when they were given the opportunity to support Carlisle band ‘Hardwicke Circus’ on a Glastonbury warm up gig.

Little did they know that Dave, who can list Elvis Costello, Madness and Motorhead among the array of acts signed to his record label, would be there too.

They were even more surprised when he said he would like them help them record a single, giving the school friends an experience and opportunity most teenagers could only dream of.

Fred told the News: “About 10 days after the gig Dave contacted me and said he thought the kids were brilliant and that he would help us record a single.

“It is completely mind-blowing, it’s absolutely mental that a music legend like him would get in contact with us.”

The band’s favourite track, a cover of the Friends theme tune ‘I’ll Be There For You’ which was originally a hit for The Rembrandts, was an obvious choice to record for the single.

Fred said: “It was just days left before some band members left school to start university so the band cancelled their end of term celebrations and I blagged some recording studio time for them.

“With help from Dave’s friend Pat Collier, we had a professionally produced single.”

The song, which is set to be released online on Friday October 14, will raise money for Winston’s Wish, a charity which offers practical support and guidance to bereaved children and their families.

Fred added: “I’m so proud of them all, it’s nice to have the recognition from someone so high up in the business. It’s crazy how it has all come about and it’s a dream of mine as well.

“We want people to hear the single, enjoy it and then buy it so we can raise as much money as we can for Winston’s Wish.”

The song will be available on iTunes from October 14.