SINGING soldiers who fought their way into the top five album charts are to release a Christmas single.

The Soldiers are the first serving members of the Armed Forces to release a successful album - called Coming Home - which entered at number four last month.

It outsold X-Factor winner Alexandra Burke, pushing her debut album out of the top four, and charted behind Cheryl Cole, Michael Buble and Michael Jackson.

Their new single, entitled A Soldier’s Christmas Letter, will be released on December 7.

The group comprises Warrant Officer (2nd Class) Gary Chilton, 41, Sgt Richie Maddocks, 37, a Gulf War veteran, and L Cpl Ryan Idzi, 24, who has served in Iraq and Afghanistan.

WO2 Chilton, also a Gulf War veteran, serves with the Heavy Cavalry and Cambrai Band, which is based in Catterick Garrison.

They were introduced after a talent scout spotted L Cpl Idzi on the X-Factor - when he was thrown off for forgetting the words to a song.

“The support we have received from the public has been absolutely incredible,” said WO2 Chilton.

“There is such a strength of feeling for the Armed Forces at the moment, and that has really come out during the month since we released the album.

“It’s been just fantastic.”

A Soldier’s Christmas Letter tells the story of a front line fighter who can’t get home to his family over Christmas.

“It’s a very moving song,” said WO2 Chilton.

“I think it would be the best Christmas present ever for the lads who are serving if it got to number one.”

Proceeds from album will go to support Help For Heroes, the Royal British Legion and the Army Benevolent Fund.

For more information visit the-soldiers.co.uk.