John Murray releases Christmas CD for mental health charity Aware

RTÉ broadcaster John Murray has released his second Christmas album to raise funds for the mental health charity Aware.

Lisa Hannigan, Mick Flannery, Cathy Davey, Declan O'Rourke and Damien Dempsey are among the artists featuring on the album A Murray Christmas 2 .

The album also features the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, the writer and Irish Times columnist Michael Harding, the 2014 Rose of Tralee Maria Walsh and Downton Abbey's Irish star Allen Leech.

The songs covered include Stop the Cavalry, O Holy Night and Happy Xmas (War is Over).

Murray alluded to his own experience of depression when he said: "There's hardly a family in Ireland that hasn't been touched by mental illness, as I know only too well. It is so important for people to have the support they need in tough times."

Murray’s bout of depression saw him take six months off last year. “Depression took a fancy to me and decided to take up residence for a few months, and boy, did it make its presence felt, especially in the mornings when the day ahead became something to endure rather than enjoy.”

Aware's clinical director Dr Claire Hayes said: "This project helps to shine a spotlight on the vital services that Aware provides."