Carlisle rock group Hardwicke Circus have pressed ahead with a nine-date charity tour of Ukraine despite serious transport difficulties on the road, writes Chris Jones.
The Carlisle-based band are raising funds throughout the tour to provide a 4×4 medical vehicle for frontline medics, supporting ongoing humanitarian needs within the country.
The tour launched in Lviv on Thursday to an enthusiastic reception.
Following the opening show, the musicians travelled to a military rehabilitation centre for a special performance to lift morale among injured service personnel.
Conditions deteriorated on the return journey, where persistent rain had left rural roads slick and hazardous.
While making the trip onward toward Drohobych for their next scheduled concert, the band’s van lost traction on a wet section of highway and slid off the road, leaving the vehicle stuck and unable to move.
After a delay, passing locals assisted, and a tractor successfully pulled the van back onto the road so that the group could continue.
Their difficulties did not end there. Further along the route, a sudden steering failure left the vehicle unable to respond properly.
Dave Robinson, the band’s manager, who was driving at the time, managed to bring the van to a controlled stop, narrowly avoiding a steep drop into a nearby river.
The incident caused an additional three-hour delay and left the group temporarily stranded.
Ukrainian organisers, monitoring the situation, dispatched alternative transport to retrieve the performers.
They were taken directly to the underground venue in Drohobych, where they completed their scheduled appearance to an appreciative and supportive audience.
Despite the unexpected ordeal, the band delivered a high-energy performance that reinforced their commitment to the cause.
Hardwicke Circus’ tour continues with concerts across Ukraine.
Jonny Foster, of Hardwicke Circus, said “The band’s mission remains focused on using music to raise crucial funds, build solidarity, and demonstrate international support for Ukrainians affected by the conflict.”
