What is Silent Night? The Yorkshire Aid Convoy Film You Need to Know About

In a noisy world the Yorkshire Aid Convoy has been quietly getting on with it for over 20 years. This small but perfectly formed charity based in Leeds with links to Harrogate has been delivering life saving aid to some of the most desperate parts of Europe. Their latest mission, a emotional trip to Kyiv in March 2024 is the subject of a new film Silent Night by filmmaker and long time volunteer Rhys Durkin.

This isn’t a normal documentary. Silent Night gets up close and personal with the convoy’s work, taking you into the chaos and bravery of war torn Ukraine. It’s not just a film about delivering aid, it’s a tribute to the volunteers and the people they’ve helped.

Image source: https://www.harrogateadvertiser.co.uk/news/people/incredible-film-about-yorkshire-aid-convoys-journey-to-ukraine-to-hand-deliver-humanitarian-aid-4934142

What’s Silent Night about?

The film follows the Yorkshire Aid Convoy on their 8th trip to Ukraine since the conflict started in February 2022. Imagine packing a van with vital supplies - medical equipment, food and clothing - and driving into a war zone. That’s what these volunteers do.

Rhys Durkin’s camera captures it all, from the long journey to the heartwarming moments with the people of Kyiv. One scene shows children holding donated blankets like they’re precious jewels. Another shows volunteers sharing a meal with locals, bridging the gap with smiles and stories.

It’s not all feel good though. The film doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of life in a war zone - the destroyed buildings, the empty streets and the fear.

Who’s behind the Yorkshire Aid Convoy?

The charity was set up in 2002 by Mark Murphy who has spent years helping communities in need. From Romania to Ukraine Mark and his team have seen it all - orphanages with no electricity, hospitals with no medical supplies, refugee camps over capacity.

Their work is about more than just aid. It’s about hope. And that’s what makes Silent Night so powerful - it shows how a small group of ordinary people can do something extraordinary.

Why this film matters

There’s something special about Silent Night. It doesn’t just show what’s happening in Ukraine; it makes you feel it. The despair yes, but also the hope.

Here’s what people are saying:

• “It’s a tear jerker but also really inspiring” one reviewer said.
• Another called it “a must see insight into the chaos of war and the quiet heroes bringing relief.”

And it’s not just for film fans or charity supporters. If you’ve ever wondered what you can do to help in a world that feels too big to tackle this film might be the answer.

Watch it?

Silent Night will be screened at a private showing at Harrogate’s Everyman cinema next week. Get up close and personal with the Yorkshire Aid Convoy and maybe even get inspired to join them or support their work.

Visit their website: Yorkshire Aid Convoy

Silent Night is more than a film - it’s a reminder that even in the darkest of times there is always light. Whether you’re in Harrogate or on the other side of the world, stories like this show us what can be achieved when we work together.