The International Staff band of The Salvation Army are the latest act to sign to Universal Records, home to artists such as Amy Winehouse and Eminem.

The group, described by the label as “the world's ultimate buskers”, will release their debut album, entitled 'Together', in November.

Sales from the album, which features a cover of 'Nessun Dorma', will be used to help boost the organisation's funding amid the ongoing global financial crisis.

The Salvation Army provides crucial help to the homeless and elderly, and the timing of the deal is seen as significant as the Christmas season approaches.

"These are uncertain times and we anticipate increasing numbers of people in need," a spokesperson for the organisation to the BBC.

Members of the band signed the deal on the Millennium Bridge in London earlier today (Ocotber 6th).

(by Jason Gregory)