WHAT better way to launch your new album than playing a gig with some of the biggest names in the business.

Teenagers Hannah Shayle-Kennedy and Laura Green, known as Kennedy Green, shared the stage with the likes of X Factor stars Olly Murs and Jamie Archer at the Harwich Powerboat Festival.

The girls’ first single is set to be released on Monday.

Hannah, 18, from Colchester, and 16-year-old Laura, from Dovercourt, got together last year to continue a charity project to raise money for Clic Sargent children’s cancer charity.

They started the fundraising in aid of Declan Heath, a school friend of Laura’s, who died of cancer in 2004.

When Declan died, his schoolmates held a concert in his memory.

In 2008 teacher James Martin recorded Rocket Girl, by the Wire Daisies, with Laura on lead vocals.

It went on to raise more than £20,000 for Clic Sargent.

Now, with Hannah on board and a new album, Kennedy Green aims to raise even more for Clic Sargent.

Laura said: “We have all had a lot of input into the album.

“Our songs all have a story and each one becomes personal to you.

“Having Hannah to work with on this project has really taken the pressure off me and it’s fun to have someone to share it with.

“From day one we clicked and we really bring out the best in each other.”

Hannah added: “We’ve been really busy promoting the album and have done quite a few warm-up gigs and some live acoustic radio performances leading up to the festival.

“It was a great experience and everyone seemed to enjoy our set so I hope they will go out and buy the album.”

The single, Cocopah, is out on Monday and the album is out next week. For more information, visit kennedygreen.co.uk