Vyshvanka Day in Shaftesbury

Over 50 people gathered to share this important event demonstrating the identity of the independent nation, Ukraine.

In the beautiful setting of the Shaftesbury Abbey Museum and Gardens. and with perfect spring weather there were traditional costumes, creative art activity, music and dancing...

We were delighted to be joined by Chase and Chalke who came along to provide art activities for the children (and adults) and to invite the Ukrainian guests to come to Cranborne Chase AONB for art, activity and picnics. Thank you, Charlotte, Rachel and Cherry.

Thanks also to the Trustees of the Abbey and Penny-Jane for making us all so welcome.

With space to wander and enjoy the gardens the time came for gentle activity:

Penny Jane, manager of the Abbey taught us all a simple English Circle dance (helped by a small girl in her traditional dress).

This was followed and by Ukrainian community singing and more dancing.

People were happy to stop and chat, drink tea, eat cakes and enjoy a great night out.

This is Alfred came along to capture the moment, which they did brilliantly in this piece. Olga’s moving story and Sara’s plea for the empathy shown by hosts locally to be replicated nationally, say it all.

And there was such a positive feeling after the meeting too…

Good morning Eric and all team of Shaftesbury Refugee Group. Thank you so much for your support and help. It’s really important for us to feel that we are not alone in a foreign country, that we still have families and can communicate and share joys and sorrows with each other.

Thank you a million times 

Thank you so much for the wonderful event!

It was a very warm meeting.  Thank you!

Very much, ’Thank You!’ Pleasant people, pleasant surroundings, pleasant chat.

Thank you very much. You are doing very wonderful things for us. we were at the meeting very happy.

It was a lovely event and huge thanks to you and the Shaftesbury group for such wonderful support to all. Thank you for welcoming us and it was great to catch up with some members of the group who I met years ago to welcome Syrians in the area.  Fabulous work!