A Eurovision party to celebrate links between the Harrogate district and Ukraine raised more than £700 towards a final aid trip.

Union flags and Ukrainian colours were out in full force at the Majestic Hotel event, organised by Chain Lane Community Hub and Harrogate District of Sanctuary.

A raffle of prizes donated by local businesses proved popular with the 170 attendees, with proceeds going to guest of honour Bob Frendt.

He has take seven lorry-loads of medical aid and other supplies to Volodymyr in western Ukraine since the Russian invasion last February. His eighth and final trip will begin next week.

Speaking to the Stray Ferret today, Mr Frendt said:

Bob and Maureen at the Eurovision party

As well as raising money, the event was a celebration of unity between Ukrainians who have arrived in the Harrogate district over the last year, and their many supporters in the area.

Attendees waved flags for both nations and danced together throughout the 26 performances.

The biggest cheers were reserved for performances by Ukraine's Tvorchi and the UK's Mae Muller, who came sixth and 25th respectively.



After building links between his home town of Knaresborough and Volodymyr, Bob successfully called for the two towns to formalise their links. Plans to officially twin have been approved by both and a twinning agreement is now being drawn up.

Bob and wife Maureen will set off for Volodymyr next Wednesday. The final trip will see them deliver laptops and other IT equipment to the school in Volodymyr, as well as further medical supplies for the hospital.

He is also hoping to take sweets to hand out when he arrives on June 1, when Ukraine marks Children's Day. Anyone who would like to donate can call him on 07836 514952.

Read more:

• 'Just one more trip' for Knaresborough's Ukraine aid hero


• Support for plans to twin Knaresborough with town in Ukraine