By Philip Welch

A football boss will take part in a second mercy mission to Ukraine this summer.

Martyn Starnes from Croscombe is Chief Executive at Frome Town FC and has worked in the same capacity at Swindon Town, Yeovil Town, Plymouth Argyle and Bristol Rovers in the last 20 years.

"In March 2024 I attended a fundraising dinner in Croscombe Village Hall organised by Harriet Sandys, a local woman due to drive an ambulance to Ukraine," said Martyn. "I'd been appalled by the aggression shown by the Russians towards Ukraine and I was inspired by Harriet to do something to help. 

"She introduced me to Medical Life Lines Ukraine, a branch of British Ukraine Aid. They accepted me as a driver in an eight-vehicle convoy to Lviv in September 2024. The Ukrainians were so grateful for the help we provided, I decided I'd like to deliver another vehicle. An opportunity has now arisen to go in July."

Martyn, who is also a trustee at Mendip Community Transport, a not-for-profit transport provider which operates accessible vehicles for local community groups, the disabled, elderly, frail, visually or mobility impaired and similar disadvantaged people, needs to raise £7,000 as his contribution to buying a secondhand ambulance and the essential medical supplies. 

A serious of fundraising events will be organised with support from Ukrainian refugees at the Wells Welcome Hub, WCN volunteers and former Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset Annie Maw.

He said: "I'd be grateful for contributions to my JustGiving account martyn-starnes-1717855752266 or for merchandise that I can auction."

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 If you have any merchandise that Martyn can auction, please email him at [email protected]