Ukrainian refugees celebrate Independence Day in Scarborough
The celebration was attended by Ukrainian refugees, hosts, and sponsors from across North Yorkshire
Ukrainian refugees have been celebrating Independence Day in Scarborough.
It took place over the weekend on Saturday 27th August and it was attended by Ukrainian refugees, hosts, and sponsors from across North Yorkshire. The event was organised by Iain Butterworth from The Sunflower Appeal Group who has around 460 members with some of them acting as hosts for the refugees and local volunteers.
Sir Robert Goodwill, MP for Scarborough and Whitby, said: “We had a lovely afternoon with our Ukrainian friends and their hosts to celebrate the day. I would like to thank Iain Butterworth and The Sunflower Appeal Group for all the work they have done in coordinating the way they have helped so many people escaping the conflict in Ukraine. Yorkshire has welcomed many families who have had to flee their country and the generous people of Scarborough and Whitby have provided them with safety and hope for the future.
"The United Kingdom will continue to stand with our Ukrainian friends – now and in the future.
"We must ensure that we work together to bring this dreadful war to an end. So, people who are celebrating here can go home and this time next year, celebrate at home with their families and friends.”
Organiser, Iain Butterworth, said: “Our community stands in solidarity with the Ukrainian community.
"Our thoughts are with those who have lost loved ones in the war and those still living through the conflict. Scarborough and the surrounding area are proud to firmly stand with them. I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the fantastic people of Scarborough and the surrounding area for their role in welcoming Ukrainians to our community and their support offered to date.”
Independence Day of Ukraine, the country's main state holiday, is celebrated on August 24th each year to mark the Declaration of Independence from the USSR in 1991.