Batman composer records tribute song for shooting victims

Batman composer Hans Zimmer has recorded a song called "Aurora" to raise money for the victims of the Dark Knight Rises shooting.

In remembrance of the 12 people killed and 58 wounded during a midnight screening of the new Batman film in Colorado just over a week ago, the eight minute song is being sold for donations via iTunes (http://smarturl.it/Aurora).

Writing on the social networking site Facebook Zimmer said: "'Aurora' is dedicated to those who lost their lives and were affected by the tragedy in Aurora, Colorado."

"I recorded this song in London in the days following the tragedy as a heartfelt tribute to the victims and their families."

The entire proceeds will be donated to Aurora Victim Relief organization.

German-born Zimmer has composed scores for other major blockbuster movies including The Dark Knight (2008) and The Lion King  (1994). He collaborated with the Buggles on "Video Killed the Radio Star.

Prosecutors in the US are today expected to formally charge the student accused of the cinema gun rampage. James Eagan Holmes, 24, was arrested following the attack.

The Dark Knight rises topped the Box Office for the second week in a row - in spite of fears about copycat attacks - taking $64.1m (£40.8m) at US and Canadian cinemas over the weekend.