Total revealed for fundraiser With Love To Ukraine free to watch from Friday

An unmissable evening at Eden Court last month when the Highlands paid tribute to Ukraine, its people and their struggle for freedom has raised £15,756.

The money raised goes to the four charities and groups providing humanitarian support, with love, to Ukraine that the night supported – UK-MED; Black Isle & Highlands Refugee Network Support; KSD Highlands For Ukraine; and AUGB Edinburgh.

And on Friday, it's hoped the release on YouTube of a recording of the night to watch free will raise more money through donations.

Helen MacRae from Inverness-based Highlands For Ukraine said she was so incredibly grateful for the effort and kindness shown by Matthew and all the talented performers in undertaking such a memorable concert.

“A really important aspect was that we were able to take around 100 of our Ukrainian guests to the evening thanks to the generosity of local sponsors and it clearly meant so much to them.

“There were tears and strong emotions of course, but so many smiles and delighted faces too. That, if nothing else, made it so worthwhile but to also receive financial donations to help our work both here in Highland as well as in Ukraine was simply a blessing!

“There is still so much more work to do even though we’re 10 months into the war that any way people can help is so vital and welcome.”

UK-Med’s community fundraising lead, Hannah Billing, said: “This was a fantastic opportunity to bring together the creative community in the Highlands to celebrate tolerance, understanding, and generosity. We are thankful to Matthew and all the artists involved for choosing to support our work.

“This event showcased some incredibly talented individuals while bringing communities together for such an important cause.

"As the situation in Ukraine progresses into winter, help and support will be needed more than ever.

"We are immensely grateful to Matthew and Alan, and everyone who came out to make the night a success.”

The one-night-only event on Wednesday, November 16 offered an exceptional line-up of internationally-renowned musicians and poets.

Talents from both the Highlands and outstanding Ukrainian artists – all celebrated and paid respects to the courage of Ukraine and its defence of democracy.

Featured artists included Ross Ainslie, Elzara Batalova, Duncan Chisholm, Julie Fowlis, Nataliya Gorban, Inverness Gaelic Choir, Hamish MacDonald, Hamish Napier, Aidan O’Rourke, Jonny Hardie, James Robertson and Toma Butko.

The unforgettable evening of music, song and spoken word also featured video clips between the artists' sets sharing the voices and stories of Ukrainians here and in Ukraine, also Highlanders engaging with and supporting Ukraine.

Producer of With Love To Ukraine, Matthew Zajac, said: “With no sign of an end to Russia’s attempt to destroy Ukraine, it is vital that we continue to support the Ukrainian people and maintain public awareness of their plight and the extraordinary bravery Ukraine continues to demonstrate in its defence of our democracy and freedom.

"With Love To Ukraine is our way of doing this, ensuring the people of the Highlands of Scotland have an opportunity to express their solidarity.

"Scottish and Ukrainian artists came together in a celebration of art, love and defiance. Слава Україні! Glory to Ukraine!”

It is hoped people watching the YouTube recording – which is free to watch – will donate via QR codes and web links provided on screen at the end of the recording to add to the fundraising total already achieved by the concert.

With Love To Ukraine is produced by Matthew Zajac and Alan Mackinnon, with support

from Eden Court Highlands. Sound Alan Mackinnon, Video Graeme Roger, Recording &

Streaming Alasdair R Maclean, Graphics Oleksandra and Anna Novatska.

Find With Love To Ukraine here from Friday: https://youtu.be/YYkSwxDOSRw

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