Christ Church in Old Town was the venue for a concert marking the 2nd anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on Saturday evening. The event was organised by two very different but important local voluntary groups - The Swindon Humanitarian Aid Partnership and The Swindon Concert Band. The concert certainly caught the attention of the media with coverage on BBC television and radio as well as many local media outlets.
The Ukrainian flag flew proudly outside as a packed church was entertained by a varied programme including music by Bach Gershwin and Elgar, as well as a selection of Ukrainian compositions that were particularly appreciated by the dozens of Ukrainian visitors in the audience.
SHAP Board member Nataliya Suhova spoke movingly about the terrible impact of the war in her country and thanked all those in Swindon who continued to show unwavering support for Ukraine and Ukrainians. She added “I so enjoyed the performance. The band were absolutely superb and I urge local people to look out for their future concerts”
Revs. Canon Simon Stevenette opened proceedings holding aloft a flickering blue and yellow candle made by SHAP volunteers to symbolise the amazing Ukrainian focus on positivity light and optimism in such difficult times.
Ukrainian refugee visitors Alla, Juliia and Kateryna spoke for all when expressing their thanks to the Swindon Concert Band for a superb evening of music that marked the anniversary with such respect and their gratitude to the people of Swindon for their ongoing support and kindness.
Another SHAP Board member and long standing Swindon resident Carol Pickett summed things up saying “Until recently another war in Europe seemed unthinkable but here we are in 2024 with over 350 Ukrainians living in Swindon having fled Russian hostility. I am proud to be part of a team of volunteers at SHAP that tries so hard to support our Ukrainian friends. I hope and pray they are able to return home soon and enjoy a more normal life with their families while retaining the many special friendships here in Swindon”
Thank you to everyone who attended and donated at the event.
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