A well-known maritime lawyer is using music to raise vital funds and awareness for Ukraine by releasing a haunting song and heart-rending video highlighting the impact of the war from a child’s perspective.

Julian Clark, Vice President and Senior Legal Adviser of Gard (UK) Limited, was inspired to write the song, titled Putin’s War, after hosting two Ukrainian refugee families in his UK home. (He is still in close touch with them).

Now Julian is releasing the song and video for downloading as part of his new fund-raising campaign entitled Dancing In the Craters which is available to view on Love Street’s You Tube page: “Putin`s War – (dancing in the craters)” – YouTube

Recorded by Julian’s rock band Love Street at Peter Gabriel’s world renowned Real World Studio and produced by award winning producer George Shilling, Putin’s War features captivating guitar solos, soulful saxophone, and grand piano and violin, to accompany Julian’s moving vocals. The song is brought to life through a thought-provoking video produced by Ukrainian film producer Angelina Bakaliar who weaves real-life footage with emotive graphics. Viewing is not for the faint hearted!

Proceeds from the song’s sales are being shared between international maritime charity Stella Maris, which is working in Odesa to support Ukrainian seafarers and their families, and Caritas Ukraine which provides humanitarian support in the country.

Launching the Dancing in the Craters campaign, Julian Clark said: “This is the most challenging but meaningful thing I have ever done. I felt compelled to write this song and Angelina’s powerful visuals have brought it to life and helped us to take the audience on this journey with Ukraine’s people. Hope shines through the tragedy and we all look forward to the day that sunflowers once again grow in a rebuilt Ukraine.”

Urging people to donate what they can he said: “The Ukrainian people need our support. What has become page four or five reading for many remains front page for those fighting for their country in Ukraine. Every donation, no matter how small,  can make a real difference for the people of Ukraine, Ukrainian seafarers and their families. Help us support Ukraine and ensure their struggle is not forgotten.”

While any donation is welcome, the campaign guides that £21 will buy a food box to feed a Ukrainian family for one week.

Donations to the Dancing in the Craters fundraising campaign are via its  Just Giving page