While many families across the Highlands will be celebrating together this Christmas, one local man will be making a very different journey. Inverness vehicle technician Danny Ward is spending Christmas Day travelling across Ukraine to deliver his third personal shipment of humanitarian aid of 2025, a mission he feels compelled to undertake after witnessing the resilience and suffering of civilians and defenders on the front line.
Having already completed two demanding trips earlier this year, Danny says he could not relax at home in Kirkhill knowing what his friends in Kramatorsk, Kharkiv and surrounding villages are facing this winter. Their courage and spirit, he says, left a lasting impression.
Danny credits his new employer, John Clark Motor Group, for making the mission possible. After the company acquired the former Hawco dealerships last month, Danny took the opportunity to speak directly with Chairman John Clark OBE during his visit to Inverness. Within days, the chairman pledged remarkable support.
“Not only did he offer a 4x4 for the trip so I can deliver essential aid,” Danny explained, “he also donated a critical piece of equipment that will go to a specialist air defence unit protecting communities around Kharkiv from constant drone and missile strikes. Because the vehicle will be used in air defence operations, it will be safeguarding tens if not hundreds of thousands of people living under daily bombardment.”
Danny’s 4x4 will once again be packed to capacity with life-saving supplies, including first aid materials, medical kits, food, thermal clothing and other essential items.
The story has moved many of Danny’s colleagues across the John Clark Motor Group. Chairman John Clark OBE praised Danny’s extraordinary commitment:
“Danny’s courage, compassion and unwavering dedication to the people of Ukraine represent the very best of our workforce. When he told me about his mission, I was deeply struck by the humanity behind his determination to help those living under unimaginable strain. Supporting him with a vehicle and vital equipment was simply the right thing to do.
What Danny is doing this Christmas is extraordinary. While many of us are at home celebrating, he is driving into a conflict zone to deliver hope, solidarity and life-saving aid. His selflessness reminds us of the impact one individual can have when they act with conviction and heart. We could not be prouder to have him as part of the John Clark Motor Group family.”
As Danny travels across Europe on Christmas Eve, he will be carrying more than physical supplies, he will be delivering a message of hope, unity and compassion. With conditions in eastern Ukraine worsening since his last visit, he knows the risks are greater than ever. His family, friends and colleagues will be anxiously awaiting news of his safe arrival and the impact of his journey.
Danny’s mission is a powerful reminder of the true spirit of Christmas: reaching out to help others, even in the most challenging circumstances. It also highlights the difference one determined person can make when supported by a caring community and employer.
Those wishing to support Danny’s efforts can contribute via his JustGiving page:
