Ukrainians in Leamington celebrate their country's independence at church event
Ukrainians in Leamington have celebrated their country’s culture, heritage and enduring friendship with the UK at a church in the town.
The celebration of Ukraine’s Independence Day, organised by the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain (AUGB) Leamington Spa Branch, took place at All Saints’ Parish Church on Monday August 24.
The event included a prayer for Ukraine, a minute of silence, Ukrainian music and singing, traditional cultural performances and poetry.
The celebration provided an opportunity to honour Ukrainian identity and culture, while also expressing gratitude for the support and solidarity shown by the local community to Ukrainians since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Warwick and Leamington MP Matt Western and Cllr Alison Insley, the Mayor of Kenilworth, were among the guests
Mr Western said: “I was honoured to attend this event celebrating the 35th anniversary of Ukrainian independence with our local Ukrainian community and the many who have shown such great support to them and their country in recent years.
"The UK will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine for as long as it takes, and I was proud to make that clear as our Prime Minister told the Ukrainian people exactly that when in Kyiv this week.
“Thank you to all who organised such a powerful event as we mark this important anniversary and the strong bond between our two countries.
Anna Savchenko, chair of the AUGB Leamington Spa Branch, added: “We’re truly grateful for the warm welcome and continued support we have received from the people of Warwickshire.
"This evening was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our culture together and to strengthen the friendship and solidarity between our communities.”