Sleaford Mods share cover of Pet Shop Boys’ ‘West End Girls’ to raise funds for Shelter

Sleaford Mods have shared a new cover of Pet Shop Boys’ ‘West End Girls’, with all profits going to the homeless charity Shelter.

The duo – Jason Williamson and Andrew Fearn – have also received the go-ahead from Pet Shop Boys’ Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe to release the track. In addition, Tennant and Lowe have remixed the Mods’ new cover for a version that will feature on the upcoming limited edition single.

The song comes accompanied by a music video directed by Ewen Spencer and is available to stream now, ahead of a physical release that will be available to purchase in shops and at Sleaford Mods’ current UK tour from December 15.

“West End Girls is a song that’s very close to my heart, my coming-of-age track in so many ways,” said Sleaford Mods’ Andrew Fearn.

Jason Williamson added: “I’ve been listening to the Pet Shop Boys’ albums ‘Please’ and ‘Actually’ a lot, the music still fits this landscape so well. When Andrew suggested we cover West End Girls, it was important to honour the track’s brilliance. So, when Neil and Chris gave the track their blessing our tiny minds were blown, and when we received their remix… it was almost too much. It was brilliant!”

Voicing their approval, Pet Shop Boys said: “Sleaford Mods have brought East End boys back to the West End streets for a great cause and we love their new version.”

Of working with Shelter again, Williamson said: “We wanted to do something for Shelter again in the run up to Christmas so felt why not join up the two things. Their work all year round is so important and – unfortunately, considering the state of the country –needed more than ever. We are pleased proceeds from the single can go to them, and if you are coming to a show and can afford to make a donation, then Andrew and I really appreciate it too.”

Fans can also contribute to the duo’s fundraising efforts here, while direct donations to Shelter can be made here.