A Ukrainian refugee and Hexham resident has teamed up with a Hexham ukulele duo to raise funds for Ukraine’s Disaster Emergency Committee.

Volo Muliar, who is preparing for a global cycle trip, joined forces with musicians Kevin Jones and Garry Swinton to release a new music album, ‘The Uke-Raines,’ today.

Proceeds go towards the bike tour across all seven continents, with funds raised along the route going to support Ukraine's Disaster Emergency Committee.

Mr Swinton said: "Volo’s musical talents and sound engineer skills have produced a great series of tracks, which are now available as a download and on CD.

Hexham Courant: Volo Muliar has joined forces with Hexham Ukulele Duo, Kevin Jones and Garry Swinton

"All proceeds from sales will go to support Volo’s forthcoming round the world cycle trip.

"You can not only enjoy the music by buying the album, but you can also help Ukraine at the same time!"

Mr Muliar said: "Thousands of families have been left homeless, children have been left without parents and thousands injured and maimed.

"We cannot know how many more victims and what destruction is yet to come."

Mr Jones added: "Volo feels that his fund-raising trip is his personal contribution to making a difference to his beloved Ukraine.

"It will be his biggest challenge ever."

To contribute and order a CD, visit Volo’s funding page gofund.me/a438a83f.