A Trio of world class musicians hit Gateshead last week wooing crowds with their magical blend of Russian sounds.

During a series of smash-hit concerts, strains of folk and popular music from Ukraine could be herd mingling with the melodies of the borough's youth orchestra.

The players - all members of the Kiev State Philharmonic Society were on a humanitarian mission to raise cash for the medical aid for victims of Chernobyl.

And Gateshead locals showed their appreciation for the talented fundraisers by dipping deep into their pockets and donating a staggering total ?2,000.

On accordion for the talented trio was Yuri Federova who is the current laureate of Germany, Poland, and Finland on his instrument.

His wife Ludmila, stunned crowds with melodic sounds from her bandura - a 64-stringed instrument similar to a small harp.

And audience at Bensham Hospital, the Civil Centre, the Dryderr Centre and many more, were ecstatic with the trio's enchanting blend of sounds/

Even organizers of the musical feast could not have predicted the overwhelming reception the world-class players received from Gateshead folk.

The group was brought to Gateshead through the borough's link town twinning links.

Gateshead is twinned with St Etienne du Rouvray in France which in turn is twinned with Novaya Kohovka in Ukraine.

Jim MeWilliams, of the borough's twin town committee said: "We had no idea what league the Ukrainian musicians were in and that they were of such a high standard.

"We were flabbergasted. It was very strange to see such musical world leaders settle down and enthrall the crowds at pub venues around the borough.

"Locals absolutely loved and showed their appreciation of the music by being extremely generous to Chernobyl appeal"