X Factor bosses have given a north Kent children’s charity an early Christmas present after announcing it will receive some of the proceeds from the winner’s first single.

The single, which was released digitally on Sunday and in stores from today (Wednesday), will be in aid of children’s charity Together for Short Lives who are in partnership with chYps, the children’s arm of EllenorLions Hospices.

Ben Haenow, from Croydon, was named this year’s X Factor winner after going head to head with Fleur East in the final at Wembley Arena.

Simon Cowell’s company Syco will donate 100% of profits from the sale to charity, with some of the proceeds donated to chYps.

The song is a cover version of Something I Need, by One Republic.

Simon said: “I’m delighted The X Factor winner’s single sales will help families who are going through unthinkably difficult times.

“The money we hope to raise will really make a difference.”

EllenorLions Hospices fundraising director Rachel Holweger said: “We are delighted that the X Factor winner’s single is going to make a real difference to the seriously ill babies, children and young people that chYps supports.

“Too many families struggle to cope with their child’s diagnosis and feel isolated and alone, not knowing who to turn to.

“As a charity, not part of the NHS, we must raise over £1.5 million a year to be able to provide our children’s hospice at home service free of charge to families, so any income raised by the single is gratefully received.

“We are very grateful to everyone who has kindly donated to chYps in 2014 and we hope people will continue to support us in 2015 so we can reach out to other families facing a terminal illness.”

For more information about the charity visit www.chyps.org