AN emotionally charged concert to support Ukraine will take place in West Somerset next week.

The ‘Sing for Ukraine’ evening is being organised by Minehead and District Lions Club, which has been supporting Ukraine for the past 18 months.

Local members have been part of the Lions group in the South West which has been sending a range of items, including toys, baby clothes, medicines, wheelchairs, and even a generator.

On one occasion, there were 11 vehicles in a Lions aid convoy.

The concert, to be held in Porlock Village Hall on Saturday, October 14, features both the Minehead Male Voice Choir and the West Somerset Ukrainian Choir.

The Minehead choir has raised thousands of pounds for charity during the 20 years since it was formed and will include a wide range of songs.

Members have close links with local Ukraine refugees and fully supported the formation of the Ukrainian choir.

West Somerset Ukrainian Choir leader Alex Parvak said: “The choir was recently formed by Ukrainian refugees who fled to the UK after the war began in their homeland.

“They will perform songs deeply meaningful to Ukrainians.

“Their set list includes ‘Chervona Kalyna’, an anthem celebrating Ukrainian resilience and hope, ‘Perelaz’, a nostalgic folk song recalling childhood in Ukraine, and the national anthem of Ukraine, a defiant tribute to the country’s ancient roots and ongoing fight for freedom.

“Through their music, these refugees share their culture and experiences while raising awareness of the conflict that forced them from their homes.

“The joint concert promises to be a moving experience highlighting the voices of Ukraine’s displaced people.”

The highlight of the evening, which starts at 7.30 pm, will be the grand finale national anthem including young children with some dressed in Ukrainian national dress.

The Lions are selling concert tickets for £10 which include light refreshments, available via the SPAR shop, Porlock, and Toucan, Minehead, or on the door.