A PUNK band has returned with its annual Christmas hit to raise vital money for charity.

Reading-based Launch Control released 'Maybe it's time for Santa to retire', with all proceeds going to homeless charity Launchpad.

The group started producing Christmas hits five years ago when they came up with 'The RSPCA took my reindeer away' and have continued since.

Bassist Lee Switzer said: "We do love a good Christmas song so initially we thought it would be a bit of fun.

"Our music is normally quite political and serious so it's a nice excuse to do something fun.

"I just happened to have a fun idea for a Christmas song and now it has evolved into something we do every year."

The punk band, which also features Seb Olrog on drums and Alex Steer on guitar, filmed their video in Mr Switzer's mother's home.

Mr Switzer said they chose Launchpad after they were inspired by the work the homelessness charity does across Reading.

He added: "Being from Reading, we know that homelessness is quite a big issue in the area.

"You only have to walk through the town to see that.

"When we were looking for a new charity partner we went to meet the team at Launchpad and just seeing what they do, it seemed like a really good cause to support.

"We know at this time of year that homelessness is something that needs supporting.

"The team from Launchpad have been really good to us. A couple of years ago they let us film one of our videos in their offices."

Visit https://launchcontrolhq.bandcamp.com/ to listen and buy the track for a minimum donation of 50p.

Launch Control will perform at Face Bar, Ambrose Place, on December 18.