A sunny Saturday, 30th April, saw hundreds gather near The Test Match Pub in West Bridgford to support the people of Ukraine in a march of Solidarity.
The fine weather and regional promotion meant the numbers far exceeded expectations in a short march through Central Avenue finishing at Lutterell Hall. The event was organised by Sofia Lesiuk, Operations Manager of Lutterell Hall, whose grandfather formed The National Ukrainian Association in the city. He had been evacuated here at the age of 17 after fleeing a similar Russian Invasion in 1940. The Ukrainian Association has evolved since then with currently 50 clubs nationwide.
Around 200 supporters were expected at the event but numbers comfortably topped 300, with locals, businesses and Ukrainian families joining in along the route. Recently, 5 Ukrainian families, women and children, have joined the local community with a further 160 families due to arrive over the next few weeks. David Mellon, leader of Nottingham City Council, declared that ‘we stand here today in solidarity with the Ukrainian people, and that the process of supporting refuges will become better and quicker’.
Other local dignitaries, including Rushcliffe B.C. Councillor Simon Robinson, Chairman of the N.U.A Michael Holod, MP for Rushcliffe Ruth Edwards and many others marched in unity and gave speeches alongside the croquet lawn in the centre of West Bridgford. Prayers were followed by the Ukrainian National Anthem as wreaths and sunflowers (Ukrainian national flower) were laid on the lawn alongside.
The West Bridgford Liberty Singers Choir performed a superb rendition of ‘Racing Cars’, Sofia then closed the event by thanking all those who supported the march.