08 May 2023 , 19:23
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Last year’s Eurovision winners have secretly saved hundreds of animals left abandoned in Ukraine.
Kalush Orchestra, from the war-torn country, are helping to fund the rescue of orphaned cats and dogs whose owners have died since Russia’s invasion.
A band spokesman said: “Unfortunately, animals cannot save themselves.
“Many of them became homeless due to the death of their owners, who were killed by the Russian military.
“We believe that with joint efforts we will be able to support not only our heroes of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and people participating in reconstruction works and medical projects, but also homeless animals.”
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Kalush Orchestra last year (Getty Images)Kalush Orchestra, whose band members includes frontman Oleh Psiuk, instrumentalist Ihor Didenchuk and dancer MC KilimMan, swept to victory last year ahead of British entry Sam Ryder.
As part of their drive to save animals, they have organised a massive fundraiser for the Sumy Animal Protection Society.
The band members have also taken several animals under their wings. A spokesman added: “KilimMan rescued a homeless cat from the street. This cat turned out to be pregnant and gave birth to three kittens a month ago. KilimMan is taking care of them now.”
As the reigning Eurovision champions, they are planning their UK return this weekend as Liverpool hosts the contest on behalf of Ukraine.
The rap group said they were “grateful” to the UK for hosting the contest in the wake of Vladimir Putin ’s invasion in February 2022.
This year's contest takes place in Liverpool (Irish Mirror)Tymofii Muzychuk, a piper who also forms part of the seven-piece, said: “We believe something incredible awaits us in Liverpool, with a Ukrainian flavour.”
He said the band, who will perform during the grand final on Saturday, were keeping the nature of their routine under wraps. “Soon you will see with your own eyes,” he added.
He added the band would be voicing their support for this year’s Ukrainian act, electronic music duo Tvorchi.
He said: “We wish the boys victory and will support them during the final. We love their track Heart Of Steel.”
Mae Muller, 25, will compete for the UK with her track I Wrote A Song, which features tongue-in-cheek lyrics about a cheating ex-boyfriend.
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A total of 37 countries are set to take part in Eurovision this year, with Ukraine automatically qualifying for the grand final as 2022 winners. They will join the so-called “big five” – the UK, France, Germany, Italy and Spain – who each get a free pass because of their financial contributions to the event.
The semi-finals from the Liverpool Arena will be broadcast on the BBC tonight and on Thursday.