Hillsborough charity single to pip Arthur to Christmas No 1

X Factor winner James Arthur is set to be denied a British top spot at Christmas by a charity single featuring the talents of Paul McCartney, Robbie Williams and dozens of other stars.

The version of the Hollies’ hit He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother by The Justice Collective is produced by Williams’ long-time collaborator Guy Chambers with all proceeds going to cover legal costs of families of the Liverpool supporters killed in the Hillsborough disaster in 1989. It comes after a damning report into the handling of the crush that left 96 fans dead.

A spokesman for bookmakers William Hill said the song was 1/7 to be Christmas number one with Arthur 9/2 second favourite.