Callum Beattie plays exclusive show for young fan with rare disease

Scots singer Callum Beattie has staged a special performance for a young fan with a rare condition.

Nine-year-old Reece Mitchell has Batten Disease, which has robbed him of his sight and ability to talk and walk – but he can still hear and loves to listen to music.

His mum Donna Mitchell said the tiny exclusive concert at Inverness Ice Centre helped them make precious memories.

“Up until the age of six, Reece was able to walk and talk,” said Donna. “He could eat, but now he is fully dependent on me for all his care needs.

“He has music therapy and loves to listen to the sounds, so this experience with Callum was very special.”

Reece and his mum Donna this week completed a fundraising challenge for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).

She said “Reece is supported by the CHAS At Home team, and we are supported by Rachel House. Living in the Highlands, resources are quite scarce so to have their support is invaluable.

“We did ‘10,000 Steps for CHAS’ in February and managed to raise over £1,000. It has been great to give something back.”

Callum, who has just released a new album called Vandals, said it was important to share the power of music and he was delighted to play especially for Reece.

The singer said: “If it makes a small difference to him and his family, then why would I not? 

“Especially when it comes to young kids, just to see the music put a smile on their face for a couple of minutes is brilliant.”