Dad of Truro aid worker who died in Ukraine praises people from the country
Rob Parry has joined a group of volunteers delivering aid to civilians
Last updated 1st Aug 2023
The dad of a Cornwall aid worker, who died in Ukraine, has paid tribute to the people of the country - calling them "stoic".
Chris Parry, who was from Truro but had been living in Cheltenham, was killed alongside fellow volunteer Andrew Bagshaw in January while attempting a "humanitarian evacuation".
His dad, Rob Parry, is currently visiting Ukraine alongside a team of volunteers to see some of what Chris experienced.
They're in the country to donate equipment to Military Medics, as well as a humanitarian aid organisation based in Poland.
They're also carrying medical supplies headed for Kyiv, and a lorry-full of aid in Lviv.
Read more: Truro-born aid worker Chris Parry's dad visits Ukraine in his memory
Rob told us that they've met soldiers at a Ukrainian bloc border: "We did have somebody who was with us who was excellent at translating between us. The border guards were brilliant, so helpful and kind to us."
He's described the people of Ukraine as "strong": "Life carries on with them out here. They will not be beaten by anybody and much respect to them for that."
He adds that he was "stunned" by the mood at a shopping centre he visited: "It was buzzing. Kids and families running around, doing their bits and pieces there and you could literally walk a couple hundred yards away from that building and see total devastation."
Part of the group Rob is travelling with includes Gloucester artist Russell Haines, the director of Gloucester Brewery Hugh Joslyn, Geoff Smith from Gloucester Brewery, and Oli Monks from AJ Elite Couriers, also based in Gloucestershire.
A portrait of Chris, created by Russell, was launched at Gloucester Brewery in July.
Later next month, Rob will be joined Katie, his sister, and Christine, his wife, in a chance to heal, retrace Chris' steps, and keep his memory alive.