Factory Records co-founder Alan Erasmus to travel to Ukraine to join the fight against invading Russian forces

Alan Erasmus, a co-founder of iconic Manchester label Factory Records, as well as a co-founder of the city's legendary nightclub and venue The Haçienda, is set to travel to Kyiv to join in the fight against the invading Russian forces – according to a message shared by former Haçienda DJ and writer Dave Haslam this morning.

Noting that Erasmus "has a history of humanitarian action", Haslam shared a text message sent to him from the 72-year-old.

"Cold, wet, Manchester morning," the message reads. "On Friday I thought 'I'm not having this', I've fought bullies, of one kind or another, all my life, Putin is no different. This is a very, very, very important moment in history Dave, it cannot be lost. I booked a flight to Krakow for tomorrow, from there I will make my way to Kyiv. Once there (with Durutti in mind) I will set about convening the Factory Nentsov Column made up of fellow helpers and volunteers. I know no one in Kyiv, do you or any of your colleagues have any contacts there, it would be extremely helpful. Maybe one person can make a difference."

The mention of "Durutti" is a reference to the Manchester band The Durutti Column, who Erasmus managed. They were among the first acts signed to Factory Records, alongside the likes of Joy Division and A Certain Ratio. The Durutti Column took their name from the largest anarchist column formed during the Spanish Civil War, fighting against Franco.

Erasmus' announcement follows an appeal from Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy for foreign nationals to join the fight against the invasion.

Message received this morning from Alan Erasmus co-founder of Factory Records. This is genuine and heartfelt. Alan has a history of humanitarian action. Can anyone help put him in touch with contacts in Kyiv? pic.twitter.com/2se6SylbKA

— Dave Haslam (@Mr_Dave_Haslam) March 1, 2022

See more of our coverage of the invasion of Ukraine here.