Llandudno concert raises £500 to support charity helping paramedics in Ukraine

The concert, organised by the U3A choir and Llandudno mayor Carol Marubbi, was held at the Trinity Community Centre on Friday, September 16.

It was in aid of “Hospitallers”, a charity based in the UK and Ireland focused on sourcing and delivering medical supplies for paramedics saving lives in Ukraine.

The U3A choir. Photo: Helen Denning (Image: Newsquest)

Before the concert, Cllr Marubbi made a short speech, followed by a two-minute silence in memory of Queen Elizabeth II.

The U3A choir performed a variety of familiar songs which the audience were able to join in with, including “Can’t Help Falling in Love”, “Meet Me in St Louis”, and “Hallelujah”.

Elina, who is Ukrainian, playing piano at the concert. Photo: Helen Denning (Image: Newsquest)

Ukrainian children also impressed the audience with their musical talents, while the concert later ended with renditions of the Welsh, Ukrainian and British national anthems and a raffle.

Helen Denning, who grew up in Kyiv before moving to Britain in 2001 and who now lives in Llandudno, said the concert was “amazing”.

She said: “The presenter, Lisa, told the guests interesting facts about each song, and the conductor, Beryl, influenced the choir’s delightful performance.

“The singers were accompanied on the piano by Marion, who played beautifully.

“There were also performances by Ukrainian children: a promising 17-year-old pianist Elina delighted the audience with her play of ‘Elegia’ by the famous Ukrainian composer Mykola Lysenko, among other pieces.

“There was also a lovely duet by Maria on piano and Denys on violin, and additional pieces by Maria on piano and harp.

“There was a break in the middle for a cake and a coffee - we thank Morrisons for the donation of the cakes.

Denys, who is Ukrainian, and Maria, who is half-Ukrainian, performing at the concert. Photo: Helen Denning (Image: Newsquest)

“After the concert, Carol carried out the raffle, with the help of devoted volunteers Joe, Sharon, Karen, Liz and Cath.

“It was a lovely concert; thank you, U3A, for organising it, and Trinity Centre for hosting it.

“We are grateful for all the supporters of Ukraine who came to the concert and helped to raise money for Hospitallers.”

READ MORE:

Llandudno charity concert raises more than £1,000 for Ukraine

Llandudno Ukrainian cultural event and Prestatyn bowling night raise funds and spirits

Llandudno vigil shows solidarity with people of Ukraine

Since Ukraine was invaded by Russia in February, Llandudno’s Trinity Community Centre had already hosted another charity concert, which raised £1,100, as well as a Ukrainian cultural event, which raised £950.

Numerous vigils and peace marches have also taken place in the town this year.

For more information on Hospitallers, go to: www.hospitallers.co.uk.