Branson’s ‘Live Aid’... for Venezuela

SIR Richard Branson is organising a concert to raise £77million in food and supplies for crisis-hit Venezuela.

The billionaire Virgin boss said he wants the troubled country’s border reopened so humanitarian aid can ‘finally reach those millions who need it’. The benefit gig will be held next Friday in the Colombian city of Cucuta, on the border with Venezuela.

British star Peter Gabriel will be among the acts, with the performances livestreamed on the internet. Announcing the concert in a video message, Branson said: ‘Venezuela is suffering and not that long ago it was the wealthiest country in South America. Now it is facing the worst humanitarian crisis in the western hemisphere.

‘Our goal is to raise $100million (£77million) in 60 days and reopen Venezuela’s border so humanitarian aid can finally reach those millions who need it the most.’

The airline boss said he was asked to act by Juan Guaido, now recognised by more than 50 countries including the UK as Venezuela’s interim president. The country is facing drastic food shortages amid an economic crisis.

Humanitarian aid has been blocked at the border with Colombia by Venezuela’s president Nicolas Maduro, who fears letting it in would be the first step toward a US invasion. Sir Richard added: ‘We must break this impasse or soon many Venezuelans will be on the edge of starvation or death.’

Other acts scheduled to perform include Puerto Rican singer Luis Fonsi, who had a UK hit with the song Despacito.