We have all been horrified by the atrocities taking place in Ukraine as a result of the Russian invasion. Millions of people have and are still seeking refuge from the war. A local family, the Blundells , who had friends in Ukraine wanted to offer them sanctuary but could not accommodate them. As a family we seized the opportunity to help. One of our apartments at Acresfield had just become available. As the displaced family would obviously be arriving with very little Julie and Alex Ward set about furnishing the apartment not only with items such as beds, three piece suite,…….. but with the basics such as pots, pans, and even games for the children.
After a long 8 weeks wait for visas to be approved the Petrochenko family- Mykhailo, the father, Olena, the mother, and their three children Solomilia, 9, Pavlo, 6 and Davyd, 4 – finally arrived on Friday 20th May 2022. They had lived in a town half way between Kyiv and Lviv close to an airfield and a TV tower which was bombed. Wyre Council has set up a support group and the children will attend local schools. As a family we have also provided them with membership to our Health Club and will arrange swimming lessons for the children. We will do everything possible to make our guests feel welcome and have even taught our team basic Ukrainian. The future is uncertain for this family but what is certain is that they will be safe and supported by a caring community.
“It is extremely rewarding to know that we have been able to play our part in offering support to this delightful family. Fortunately very few of us have experienced or can comprehend the trauma of losing our homes and being displaced. The Petrochenkos are welcome to stay for as long as necessary” Michael Ward.
