Musicians gather to raise funds for Ukraine supplies

A group of musicians has come together to support the people of Ukraine through a fundraising event. This event, known as Play for Ukraine, is the fourth of its kind since the conflict with Russia began in 2022. It took place at the Face Bar in Reading, Berkshire, on Saturday. The funds raised during this event will be used to purchase a vehicle that will be filled with essential supplies and sent directly to those in need on the frontline. The organizer of this event, Pete Laschok, is a drummer whose father was originally from Ukraine. He emphasized that this gathering is not a political statement but rather a humanitarian effort aimed at helping those who are suffering. Pete expressed his desire to make a positive impact, stating, 'I just want to help in some way, in a humanitarian sense. ' He shared that he felt deeply upset and emotional as he witnessed the war unfold, saying, 'Bombs are still flying, people are getting killed. ' Pete does not believe that peace will be achieved anytime soon and feels that the people of Ukraine will always require assistance. Five bands volunteered to perform at this year's event, including Pink Diamond Revue, Natural Right, Hoopy Frood, Kryla, and He Fired First. Pete mentioned that the vehicle they raised funds for last year is still actively being used in Ukraine. He hopes that his efforts would have made his late father proud, but he also noted, 'It is good that he is not here to see it because he would be devastated by it. ' Stefan Bomok, a representative from the Reading Branch of the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain, will be responsible for receiving the donations from the fundraiser and ensuring that the vehicle reaches Ukraine. He shared that the organization has already sent five 4x4 vehicles from Reading to assist in the efforts. Stefan explained that the new vehicle will be used to transport military supplies and medical aid to the frontline and bring wounded individuals back to hospitals. He also reflected on his family's connection to Ukraine, recalling their first visit just before the country gained independence. He described the moment they saw flags being raised in Kyiv and how it made him feel more at home in Ukraine, despite not being born there. He stated, 'What my father gave me was culturally very strong.