A college media officer has won the hearts and ears of Britain’s Greek community by writing them an Olympic games anthem.
It may not have official status but it has become top of the pops for the 300,000 Greek speakers who tune-in daily to London Greek Radio. The lyrics to the song, ‘Athlete’, were penned by Kay Shelley, press officer at the College of North West London, one of the capital’s largest further education colleges.
She said: “We wanted the song to be inspirational and to have international appeal. That’s what the Olympics is all about.” The Greek-British collaboration’s main singer is popular Greek vocalist, Chris Giatsidis, star of the musical Grease in Athens. It also features the voice of Helen Knox-Johnston, niece of round-the-world sailing champion Robin Knox-Johnston.
Ms Shelley told FE Focus: “My workplace was a motivating factor - my college draws students from many countries. It’s one of the most multi-ethnic education institutions in Europe.
“Once Greece won the UEFA Cup, it seemed like a sign that everything was coming up Greek, and we should go for it. It’s wonderful that the Greek community have taken it to their hearts, we really hope the British will do the same.” The single will be available soon online through the Nonego website (www.nonego-records.com) and is being promoted in Greece and the UK.
