A new family-friendly vehicle show in Knaresborough this Sunday is hoping to help give Ukrainian children something many have not experienced for years – a chance to simply be children.
Revved takes place at Knaresborough House on Sunday (July 5), bringing together classic cars, sports cars, motorcycles and military vehicles for a day of family entertainment, all in aid of a unique humanitarian project.
Organisers are inviting vehicle owners to display their pride and joy for a £10 donation per vehicle, with every penny helping fund a trip to Yorkshire for young footballers from the Ukrainian city of Volodymyr.
The fundraising campaign is the latest initiative from Knaresborough resident Bob Frendt, who has become well known locally for his tireless humanitarian work in Ukraine.
Since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, Bob has made numerous aid trips to Volodymyr, delivering medical supplies, mobility equipment, school resources and even a specialist fire engine after local officials explained they had no vehicle capable of reaching the upper floors of apartment blocks.
His efforts also played a key role in Knaresborough signing a Town Twinning Agreement with Volodymyr in 2023, strengthening links between the two communities.
Now, Bob's focus is on bringing a junior football team, aged between 11 and 16, from Volodymyr to North Yorkshire for a week of football, friendship and respite.
Speaking about the project, Bob said:
"The school in Volodymyr has many children who have lost one or more family members in the conflict with Russia.
"To give a few of them some respite and peace in Yorkshire would be amazing for them."
Bob says the children currently attend lessons in underground bomb shelters, while many families endure daily power cuts and the constant threat of drone and missile attacks.
He hopes a week in Yorkshire will give the youngsters an opportunity to enjoy football with local teams, make new friends and experience life away from the conflict.
Around £5,000 has already been raised towards the estimated £20,000 needed to make the visit happen, thanks to support from organisations including Knaresborough Lions, Knaresborough Rotary Club, Chain Lane Community Hub, Wetherby Folk Club and Wetherby Lions.
Revved is expected to play a major part in helping Bob reach his fundraising target.
Visitors can expect a wide variety of vehicles on display, alongside food and drink, a licensed bar, ice cream and family entertainment throughout the day.
Anyone wishing to display a vehicle can do so for a £10 donation, while spectators are encouraged to come along and support the appeal.
Those unable to attend but who would like to support Bob's mission can contact him directly on 07836 514952 or by email at bobfrendt@aol.com.
Listen to Your Harrogate's Pete Egerton speaking to Bob here:
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