A BENEFIT concert raised thousands of pounds on behalf of organisations providing vital aid to those fleeing a war-torn European country.

The Wivenhoe Ukrainian Crisis Charity Music Event, organised by Duncan Boon, took place at the William Loveless Hall, in the High Street, on Saturday night.

During the eight-hour show the packed venue hosted performances from a range of music groups, including Band of Fools, The Wicked Ravens and The Punk Freud.

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There was also poetry from Alex Toms, spoken word by AL Kennedy, comedy from the likes of Ali Bell and Chris Walker, and an open mic stage.

The concert, supported by Wivenhoe Town Council, was held to aid the United Nations’ efforts in helping the people of Ukraine, a country being invaded by Russia.

In total the evening of entertainment, which was overseen by engineers from Black Cactus Studio, raised a staggering £6,500.

Mr Boon said: “Feeling powerless about the dreadful situation in the Ukraine, I wanted to channel my frustration and anger at this dreadful situation into running an event.

“The wonderful people of Wivenhoe came together so quickly to enable the event to happen.

“Many people turned up just to donate on the door without staying for the entertainment which was heart-warming.

“I would like to give a heartfelt thank you to all the volunteers, bands, and comedians who performed for free.

“We had four acts pull out due to Covid so it was a bit of a juggling act on the day but Wivenhoe pulled it off.

“The money raised will go some way to relieve the suffering of the innocents victims of a despicable unnecessary war.”

To donate visit crisisrelief.un.org/t/ukraine.