AN EVENT is being organised by Ukrainian members of the community to thank Weymouth residents who have done so much to help and support them over the past few months amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Residents in Weymouth and across Dorset have shown their solidarity with Ukraine since the start of the war by flying Ukrainian flags, holding emotional vigils, donating goods and money for all those leaving the war-torn country and opening their homes up to refugees.

Weymouth Town Council will be supporting the event which is to take place on Sunday, June 26, between 11am and 1pm at Weymouth’s Jubilee Clock. Members of the public are invited to join the family-friendly event which is being organised ahead of a national holiday in Ukraine on Tuesday, June 28, called Constitution Day.

Ukrainian community members will show their appreciation to Weymouth by giving residents the chance to learn more about Ukraine and its culture.

Cllr Ann Weaving, Mayor of Weymouth, said: “It was a special moment when Weymouth residents came together earlier in the year to hold a vigil at the Jubilee Clock in support of the people of Ukraine. Weymouth still stands with Ukraine and this Sunday’s event is a chance to join together once more and meet members of the Ukrainian community living in Weymouth.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the children in traditional dress singing songs of Ukraine and hope to welcome many members of the community to the event.”

Maryna Dovbysh, representing the group organising the event, said: “We are very grateful to Weymouth citizens for all your help and we would like to tell you more about our country, our symbols, values, about ourselves and what we left at home.”

In March Weymouth Town Council helped organise a vigil at the Jubilee Clock so that Weymouth residents could come together and show their support for the people of Ukraine. The clock was also lit in the colours of the Ukrainian flag as a visual symbol of support.