Rugby World Cup fans in union against Paloma Faith song

Since being commissioned by Rugby World Cup organisers in 1991 it’s been sung by Bryn Terfel, Shirley Bassey and even Ladysmith Black Mambazo – but this year’s version of tournament anthem World in Union has hit all the wrong notes, according to thousands of fans.

The petition was was set up five days ago by someone who called “No Paloma” – and so far has got almost 200 supporters.

Many ITV viewers are apparently at the end of their tethers having to listen to Faith’s rendition at the beginning and during the ad breaks of every World Cup game.

It says: “Already sick of Paloma Faith’s very bad rendition of “World In Union“?”

It was commissioned by World Rugby in 1991 and has been used as the tournament’s anthem ever since.

Some viewers have told the Daily Mail that it is putting them off watching the rugby.

The huge rugby fan, said: “I basically just found the song really annoying”.

And Jessica Catchpole from Kent added: ‘It sounds less like a professional singer and more like someone paid a bribe to let their tone deaf child be on the telly’.

“What we’re petitioning against is ITV’s decision to use the song in their coverage, and the regularity with which it is forced upon our gentle ears”.

Maureen Crothers, from Lisburn, wrote: “Paloma Faith has butchered World in Union”.

Did Paloma Faith ruin the song Kiri Te Kanawa made famous for the RWC?

Gail Kane from Scarcroft, near Leeds, said: “Although I think she’s great she is actually murdering that song”.

Speaking to BBC Newsbeat before the petition attracted attention, new Voice coach Faith said: “Some people are slating it, I feel like they don’t like change, but I don’t mind”.

Traditionalists are calling for the restoration of Dame Kiri, or Bryn Terfel. “I think they don’t like it because it’s being played too much”.

Not sure on new #RWC2015 theme song…

Faith’s song features on the official album for the Rugby World Cup 2015 which contains Swing Low Sweet Chariot by Ella Eyre and tracks by Tom Jones and Only Men Aloud.