People News

Tyler James admires Mitch Winehouse

Dec 31, 2012, 15:01 GMT

Mitch Winehouse and Tyler James

Tyler James has praised Amy Winehouse's father for his contribution to her foundation.

The 'Single Tear' pop star was close friends with the late singer until her death in July 2011 and has remained close to her dad Mitch and respects the work he is doing for the Amy Winehouse Foundation, particularly because he can relate to the organisation over the help it offers to addicts after he battled with drug and alcohol dependency in the past.

He explained: 'I haven't had as much involvement as I would like but, I mean, I speak to Mitch all the time and I understand what he is doing.

'I like what they're doing for me as well; I'm an addict and that's one thing. It's not all of it but that's part of it and I think it's really important for the family to help people and to want to give something back.'

Tyler is also proud that Mitch refrained from spending the money that Amy left and gave it to the cause - which also supports those who suffer from ill health, disability and financial problems - and believes it is a life-saver for those who seek help.

He told BANG Showbiz: 'I mean obviously they raise money for some charities and stuff but I know personally that a lot of Amy's inheritance and money is put into that company - that's quite a big thing because Mitch could have just kept that all for himself but he's using it for the will of good so I think it's a really good thing.

'I think if people need help when they're young because they've had trouble in childhood or people who are addicts and need help I think they should get that. I wouldn't be here if I didn't.'