Chorley & District Support for Ukraine
This group was created to try and help raise awareness of the crisis in Ukraine and to help organise and coordinate local efforts to send support from across the Borough of Chorley in Lancashire.
This has since grown into a North West of England effort!
Across Chorley & District multiple educational facilities, community groups and organisations reacted and began to spread awareness and collect donations. In order to sift and sort a lot of local donations, a unit has been loaned by Chorley Council. A large percentage of the District's aid has come into this unit and it is being palletised ready for sending out to Eastern Europe.
This has since grown into a North West of England effort!
Across Chorley & District multiple educational facilities, community groups and organisations reacted and began to spread awareness and collect donations. In order to sift and sort a lot of local donations, a unit has been loaned by Chorley Council. A large percentage of the District's aid has come into this unit and it is being palletised ready for sending out to Eastern Europe.
Donations being organised at Chorley, April 2022.
Furthermore, the unit has been able to act as an overspill when the International Aid Trust warehouse, formerly of Lostock Hall (now Hesketh Bank) has been overwhelmed, and the 'Ukraine Unit' has also received collections from Leyland, Penwortham, Wigan, Blackburn, Bolton, and elsewhere.
Stuart Clewlow with Rev Bernard Cocker, Founder of International Aid Trust.
The main drop off point was originally off Market Walk in Chorley town centre.
From 1st July 2024, we opened our very own donation centre inside the former White Hart pub in Chorley. Again, thanks to the support of Chorley Council, it was possible for us to continue our work in the heart of Chorley. From here, we will be able to carry on receiving donations from all across the North West.
From 1st July 2024, we opened our very own donation centre inside the former White Hart pub in Chorley. Again, thanks to the support of Chorley Council, it was possible for us to continue our work in the heart of Chorley. From here, we will be able to carry on receiving donations from all across the North West.
Through the hard work of the dedicated group of volunteers, by May 2023 we had been able to send out over 350 pallets worth of aid from the affectionately named 'Ukraine Unit' and the "Chorley & District Support for Ukraine" Facebook group now has nearly 3,000 members from all across Europe.
A hive of activity at the 'Ukraine Unit' in Chorley, March 2022.
The efforts of the group has seen it being reported about in the Lancashire Post, Chorley Guardian local newspaper, regional radio and even Granada Reports (TV). As well as welcoming families and guests from the Ukraine, who are now staying locally, the unit has also been visited a couple of times by Chorley MP and Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle.
Sir Lindsay Hoyle visits the 'Ukraine Unit', 30th April 2022.
On 17th May 2023, we despatched our 350 pallet of aid from the 'Ukraine Unit' in Chorley.
This is in addition to the near 200 bicycles, 200 walking aids, military uniforms, and so much more!
The generosity of people not only from Chorley & District, but also South Ribble, Preston, Bolton, Wigan, Southport, Greater Manchester, West Lancashire, East Lancashire has been absolutely overwhelming!
This is in addition to the near 200 bicycles, 200 walking aids, military uniforms, and so much more!
The generosity of people not only from Chorley & District, but also South Ribble, Preston, Bolton, Wigan, Southport, Greater Manchester, West Lancashire, East Lancashire has been absolutely overwhelming!
From June to October 2022, we created a 'pop-up shop' inside our Ukraine unit. Here, our guests from Ukraine could call in to see the volunteers, have a drink, and choose free items to help them get on their feet, such as toiletries, clothes, toys, nappies, etc. If we had something in stock, our guests were welcome to it.
We were able to help people from all across Lancashire and Greater Manchester and by the end of the initiative we had given out the equivalent of 219 'bags for life'.
We were able to help people from all across Lancashire and Greater Manchester and by the end of the initiative we had given out the equivalent of 219 'bags for life'.
As the situation in Ukraine has changed, so has our collections and way of operating.
As well as the 'pop up shop', we have also been able to add to the list of items we are able to receive to send out to Ukraine. We have been collecting bicycles for Ukraine and as of May 2023, we have sent out over 175!
In addition, from September 2022 we have been collecting household appliances and heaters to send to Ukraine in readiness for the dropping temperatures. From initially being a Chorley & District initiative, we are now attracted donations and volunteers from all across the North West of England.
As well as the 'pop up shop', we have also been able to add to the list of items we are able to receive to send out to Ukraine. We have been collecting bicycles for Ukraine and as of May 2023, we have sent out over 175!
In addition, from September 2022 we have been collecting household appliances and heaters to send to Ukraine in readiness for the dropping temperatures. From initially being a Chorley & District initiative, we are now attracted donations and volunteers from all across the North West of England.
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Extra support from Chorley & District Support for Ukraine
Working with one of our Ukrainian group members, we have published a basic Translation-Transliteration to help our local Sponsors and Guests from the Ukraine to familiarise themselves with some key words and household items. We have been selling the booklets in our donations unit but we are also happy to share it here for you to download free of charge:
| list_of_words_in_ukrainian_and_russian_with_transliteration_1.5.22.pdf |
Translation & Transliteration booklet, May 2022
Another resource we have produced is a simple display of United Kingdom currency. The purpose is to help people from the Ukraine to familiarise themselves with our currency.
Again, you are welcome to download the document:
Again, you are welcome to download the document:
| uk-currency-for-ukrainians.pdf |
In May 2022 I was able to work with Chorley Council to produce a map of Chorley town centre.
Useful buildings and places have been marked on the map in English, Ukrainian and also Russian.
On the reverse is an overall map of the Borough so that our new Guests to Chorley can familiarise themselves as to how the outlying villages relate to Chorley.
Useful buildings and places have been marked on the map in English, Ukrainian and also Russian.
On the reverse is an overall map of the Borough so that our new Guests to Chorley can familiarise themselves as to how the outlying villages relate to Chorley.
Map of Chorley town centre and the Borough as a whole. The image can be downloaded below...
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The Chorley & District Support for Ukraine group has been able to develop an excellent working relationship with members of the International Aid Trust charity. They have been supporting the people of Ukraine for over 30 years and it was only logical to work with them. During our open sessions at the 'Ukraine Unit', we have received a number of anonymous monetary donations and we had the great pleasure of presenting £500 to Rev Bernard Cocker of International Aid Trust and the money would be utilised to further their work in Ukraine.
On the 30th November 2022, the 75th open session of the 'Ukraine Unit' in Chorley was held. Even more pallets of aid were sent out, courtesy of our friends at International Aid Trust. Later that day, we presented them with a power station to give to a household in need in Ukraine. The special power bank enables a family to use appliances and charge phones and laptops, etc during a power outage and when it returns it can be recharged. The purchase was made with monetary donations that had been collected at the unit through the sale of badges, town centre maps, etc.
Volunteers from the Chorley & District Support for Ukraine group at the 75th open public session of the 'Ukraine Unit' in November 2022.
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Chorley & District Support for Ukraine fundraising badges, May 2022
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Chorley & District Support for Ukraine fundraising keyrings, December 2022.
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Remembrance Sunday 2022
On Remembrance Sunday 2022 members of the Chorley & District Support for Ukraine group and also the Chorley Ukraine Community Group 'Kalyna' joined together to parade in Chorley. As a sign of solidarity, the two groups marched side by side and at the Chorley Civic War Memorial in Astley Park, two wreaths were lay in honour of those who have lost their lives in Ukraine. The wreaths were a traditional red poppy style with a single sunflower in each to symbolise Ukraine. The purpose of the involvement was to maintain awareness, encourage support for Ukraine, to show our Guests from Ukraine that they are in our thoughts (as well as giving them a place to reflect) and to honour those who have made the Ultimate Sacrifice.
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Christmas 2022
Ahead of Christmas 2022 we launched the Ukraine Christmas Gift Shoebox Appeal in Chorley. We have encouraged schools, community groups and members of the public to donate shoeboxes of useful and enjoyable items so that they can be sent to Ukraine to those who will not have much this Christmas.
Boxes have been labelled up for Babies, Girls, Boys, Women and Men and there has been a great response from across Chorley & District.
We collected an absolutely fantastic 264 Christmas Gift Shoeboxes for Ukraine.
Boxes have been labelled up for Babies, Girls, Boys, Women and Men and there has been a great response from across Chorley & District.
We collected an absolutely fantastic 264 Christmas Gift Shoeboxes for Ukraine.
Chorley & District Ukraine Community Christmas Party 2022
On 17th December 2022, we held a very special Christmas Party at the Hollinshead Centre in Chorley. At the start of the year we were strangers, but this very special party brought over 100 new friends together for
fun, food and laughter.
The party consisted of members of the Chorley & District Support for Ukraine group, the Chorley Ukraine Community Group Kalyna, and also Volunteers, Sponsors and our Guests from Ukraine.
With thanks to Chorley Council for their support, everyone was able to enjoy a supper of Lancashire Hotpot and some traditional Ukrainian food and treats. Along with a DJ who played a mixture of British and Ukrainian pop music, the night included Christmas Carole's, singing by the Kalyna Choir and there was even a very special visitor in the form of Father Christmas!
fun, food and laughter.
The party consisted of members of the Chorley & District Support for Ukraine group, the Chorley Ukraine Community Group Kalyna, and also Volunteers, Sponsors and our Guests from Ukraine.
With thanks to Chorley Council for their support, everyone was able to enjoy a supper of Lancashire Hotpot and some traditional Ukrainian food and treats. Along with a DJ who played a mixture of British and Ukrainian pop music, the night included Christmas Carole's, singing by the Kalyna Choir and there was even a very special visitor in the form of Father Christmas!
Chorley & District Flying the Flag for Ukraine
Just before Christmas 2022, I was invited to a very special concert in Preston (Lancashire) called “UKraine to UK”, which was supported by Lancashire County Council and was produced to showcase Ukrainian culture and to thank the region for its support. As part of the event I was thanked for my efforts and the work of the Chorley & District Support for Ukraine group, and was presented with a very special Ukrainian flag which I accepted on behalf of everyone from the group.
As a Local and Military Historian it was a great honour to receive a flag that had come directly from Ukraine, especially as it was signed by Officers from two Army units currently in action on the battlefield. It is very humbling to receive this flag. When one considers what is happening in Ukraine, time was taken to go to the effort of sending a flag as a sign of appreciation. I look forward to being able to place this very special souvenir on public display and as a sign of our continued support.
1-ша мотострілкова бригада 72 Окремої механізованої бригади.
Бровари, Білопілля, Богодухів, Козача Лопань, Чугуїв, Українка, Берестове, Торецьк, Вугледар.
Громаді міста Чорлі з вдячністю та повагою за підтримку України!
Сулім 09.11.22
1st Motorized Rifle Battalion, 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade.
Brovary, Bilopillya, Bohodukhiv, Kozacha Lopan’, Chuhuiv, Ukrainka, Berestove, Toreck, Vuhledar.
To the Chorley community with gratefulness and respect for supporting Ukraine!
Major Sulim 09.11.22
27-ма Реактивна артилерійська бригада ім кошового отамана Петра Калнишевського. Тростянець, Боромля, Тучне, Харків, Чугуїв, Деркачі, Слобожанське, Балаклія, Ізюм, Барвінкове, Максаки.
Громаді Ланкаширу з вдячністю та повагою, людяності та за підтримку українського народу.
15.11.22 - Підполковник: Д. Горб
27th Rocket Artillery Brigade named after Petro Kalnyshevskyi.
Trostyanets, Boromlya, Tuchne, Kharkiv, Chuguiv, Derkachi, Slobozhanske, Balakliya, Izyum, Barvinkove, Maksaki.
To the Lancashire community with gratitude and respect for humanity and support for Ukrainian people.
15.11.22 - Lieutenant Colonel: D. Horb
As a Local and Military Historian it was a great honour to receive a flag that had come directly from Ukraine, especially as it was signed by Officers from two Army units currently in action on the battlefield. It is very humbling to receive this flag. When one considers what is happening in Ukraine, time was taken to go to the effort of sending a flag as a sign of appreciation. I look forward to being able to place this very special souvenir on public display and as a sign of our continued support.
1-ша мотострілкова бригада 72 Окремої механізованої бригади.
Бровари, Білопілля, Богодухів, Козача Лопань, Чугуїв, Українка, Берестове, Торецьк, Вугледар.
Громаді міста Чорлі з вдячністю та повагою за підтримку України!
Сулім 09.11.22
1st Motorized Rifle Battalion, 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade.
Brovary, Bilopillya, Bohodukhiv, Kozacha Lopan’, Chuhuiv, Ukrainka, Berestove, Toreck, Vuhledar.
To the Chorley community with gratefulness and respect for supporting Ukraine!
Major Sulim 09.11.22
27-ма Реактивна артилерійська бригада ім кошового отамана Петра Калнишевського. Тростянець, Боромля, Тучне, Харків, Чугуїв, Деркачі, Слобожанське, Балаклія, Ізюм, Барвінкове, Максаки.
Громаді Ланкаширу з вдячністю та повагою, людяності та за підтримку українського народу.
15.11.22 - Підполковник: Д. Горб
27th Rocket Artillery Brigade named after Petro Kalnyshevskyi.
Trostyanets, Boromlya, Tuchne, Kharkiv, Chuguiv, Derkachi, Slobozhanske, Balakliya, Izyum, Barvinkove, Maksaki.
To the Lancashire community with gratitude and respect for humanity and support for Ukrainian people.
15.11.22 - Lieutenant Colonel: D. Horb
In 2022, I was honoured to receive a signed Ukrainian flag from the 1st Motorized Rifle Battalion - 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade and the 27th Rocket Artillery Brigade
On 22nd March 2023 I was presented with two more flags by our good friend Vitalii. Vitalii has been working hard gathering donations from across Wigan & District and has an excellent network of volunteers in Ukraine. The two flags have come directly from Ukraine and have been signed by members of:
2nd Rifle Battalion - 128th Separate Mountain Assault Brigade and the 69th Separate Rifle Battalion.
Both of these units have been heavily involved in the fighting in Ukraine and the fact they have made
the effort of getting these flags to the UK shows that our efforts in supporting them with donations
is necessary and appreciated!
I hope to display these flags soon at the 'Ukraine Unit' in Chorley. They will symbolise our ongoing support and will be a sign of appreciation from Ukraine to everyone who has been involved with the group -
Chorley & District Support for Ukraine
On 22nd March 2023 I was presented with two more flags by our good friend Vitalii. Vitalii has been working hard gathering donations from across Wigan & District and has an excellent network of volunteers in Ukraine. The two flags have come directly from Ukraine and have been signed by members of:
2nd Rifle Battalion - 128th Separate Mountain Assault Brigade and the 69th Separate Rifle Battalion.
Both of these units have been heavily involved in the fighting in Ukraine and the fact they have made
the effort of getting these flags to the UK shows that our efforts in supporting them with donations
is necessary and appreciated!
I hope to display these flags soon at the 'Ukraine Unit' in Chorley. They will symbolise our ongoing support and will be a sign of appreciation from Ukraine to everyone who has been involved with the group -
Chorley & District Support for Ukraine
As well as the flags, Vitalii also gifted us some uniform insignia that was sent back from Ukraine.
Top left: 128 окрема гірсько-штурмова бригада - 128th Separate Mountain Assault Brigade
Top right: 57 ОМПБр "Народжені в боях" - 57th Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade “Born in Fights”
Bottom left: Сили Територіальної оборони ЗСУ - Territorial Defence Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine
Bottom right: 101 окрема бригада ТрО (Закарпатської обл) - 101st Separate Brigade (Transcarpathian Region)
Top left: 128 окрема гірсько-штурмова бригада - 128th Separate Mountain Assault Brigade
Top right: 57 ОМПБр "Народжені в боях" - 57th Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade “Born in Fights”
Bottom left: Сили Територіальної оборони ЗСУ - Territorial Defence Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine
Bottom right: 101 окрема бригада ТрО (Закарпатської обл) - 101st Separate Brigade (Transcarpathian Region)
Prayers for Ukraine
On Monday 20th February 2023, St. Laurence's Church in Chorley hosted a special service to acknowledge the one year anniversary of the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine.
The service offered an opportunity for reflection and for our community to come together in solidarity to offer prayers for those who are suffering, those who are fighting, those who are offering support and naturally, it was a time to pray for peace.
Nearly 80 people from the community attended, including the Mayor of Chorley Cllr Julia Berry, members from the Chorley & District Support for Ukraine group, Chorley Ukrainian Community Group Kalyna, other Ukrainian guests and local residents.
The service offered an opportunity for reflection and for our community to come together in solidarity to offer prayers for those who are suffering, those who are fighting, those who are offering support and naturally, it was a time to pray for peace.
Nearly 80 people from the community attended, including the Mayor of Chorley Cllr Julia Berry, members from the Chorley & District Support for Ukraine group, Chorley Ukrainian Community Group Kalyna, other Ukrainian guests and local residents.
'Ukraine Unit' - 100th open session!
On Wednesday 22nd February 2023 we held our 100th open session at the ‘Ukraine Unit’ in Chorley! Many people called in to drop off donations and we also welcomed a couple of new volunteers. In addition, we sent out another 6 pallets worth of aid with our friends from International Aid Trust and we gave another car load of donations to our friend Vitalii, in response to the “Soldiers & Children” Appeal.
Thank you to everyone who has already donated items and to all the volunteers for donating their time.
Thank you to everyone who has already donated items and to all the volunteers for donating their time.
One Year Anniversary - 2023
To mark the one year anniversary of the full scale invasion of Ukraine, the Chorley & District community pulled together to ensure that the anniversary did not go unacknowledged. The Chorley Ukraine Community Group 'Kalyna' was supported by Chorley Council to hold a Remembrance Service on the Town Hall Square in Chorley Town Centre. Members of the Ukraine Community were joined by the Mayor of Chorley Cllr Julia Berry, local residents and members of community groups (including the Chorley & District Support for Ukraine group) to prayer for Ukraine, voice words of solidarity, sing and also observe a minute silence.
The service was recorded by the local TV news from Granada Reports and was presented by Anna Youssef. Following the service, Anna also visited the 'Ukraine Unit' and the work of the dedicated team of volunteers made up part of her evening report.
Over the course of the weekend, Chorley Town Hall was lit yellow in blue in support of Ukraine.
The service was recorded by the local TV news from Granada Reports and was presented by Anna Youssef. Following the service, Anna also visited the 'Ukraine Unit' and the work of the dedicated team of volunteers made up part of her evening report.
Over the course of the weekend, Chorley Town Hall was lit yellow in blue in support of Ukraine.
Medical Aid to Ukraine
Between March-May 2023, we collected, boxed and labelled, 12 very specific pallet loads of medical aid and handed them over to our friends at International Aid Trust. The medical supplies that left Chorley was worth over a hundred thousand pounds! These donations will do so much good and will undoubtedly save many lives!
I am incredibly proud of everyone who has donated and worked on this particular consignment for Ukraine. Thanks to the efforts of volunteers in the ‘Ukraine Unit’, this medical aid provided Doctors and Nurses with:
Anaesthetic Face Masks
Tonsillectomy Equipment
Bone Fracture Kits
Cruciate Ligament Surgery Kits
Orthopaedic Kits
Paediatric Emergency Kits
Spirometer Machine
Stoma Care Kits
Wound Dressings
Chest Drainage Kits
Urinary Catheters
Theatre Kits inc. Neurosurgery Tools
& so much more!!!
I am incredibly proud of everyone who has donated and worked on this particular consignment for Ukraine. Thanks to the efforts of volunteers in the ‘Ukraine Unit’, this medical aid provided Doctors and Nurses with:
Anaesthetic Face Masks
Tonsillectomy Equipment
Bone Fracture Kits
Cruciate Ligament Surgery Kits
Orthopaedic Kits
Paediatric Emergency Kits
Spirometer Machine
Stoma Care Kits
Wound Dressings
Chest Drainage Kits
Urinary Catheters
Theatre Kits inc. Neurosurgery Tools
& so much more!!!
Candles for Ukraine
Many people would be mistaken for thinking that some of the photography coming out of Ukraine is actually showing the French battlefields of World War One!
Trench systems have been dug and Soldiers are living like the 'Tommies' of the Great War. A priority every day is to keep warm and heat food. A tried and tested method is to use a "Trench Candle" - and YOU can help!
A trench candle is an empty food tin, with a wad of rolled up corrugated cardboard inside. A couple more pieces of card are slotted in to create a wick. The tin is then filled with wax or a mixture of wax and paraffin. The simple but effective candle can burn for a few hours.
The photo shows "Trench Candles" that have been brought back from Ukraine to help highlight this appeal.
We need tins of food and candle wax!! Tins of food will be sent to Ukraine and they will then have a supply of tins. The boxes we send the tins in will be used as the wick. But we also need to send wax - lots and lots of wax. Maybe you know a wax supplier? Maybe you know someone with a wax melts business? Maybe you have leftover candles from a wedding party, etc? Please think outside of the box.
Since the launch of the "Candles for Ukraine" appeal in March 2023, we have received candles and wax from local businesses, individuals, community groups and Churches! We have been packing it all into A4 printer paper boxes and as of May 2023 we have accumulated 30 boxes!
Trench systems have been dug and Soldiers are living like the 'Tommies' of the Great War. A priority every day is to keep warm and heat food. A tried and tested method is to use a "Trench Candle" - and YOU can help!
A trench candle is an empty food tin, with a wad of rolled up corrugated cardboard inside. A couple more pieces of card are slotted in to create a wick. The tin is then filled with wax or a mixture of wax and paraffin. The simple but effective candle can burn for a few hours.
The photo shows "Trench Candles" that have been brought back from Ukraine to help highlight this appeal.
We need tins of food and candle wax!! Tins of food will be sent to Ukraine and they will then have a supply of tins. The boxes we send the tins in will be used as the wick. But we also need to send wax - lots and lots of wax. Maybe you know a wax supplier? Maybe you know someone with a wax melts business? Maybe you have leftover candles from a wedding party, etc? Please think outside of the box.
Since the launch of the "Candles for Ukraine" appeal in March 2023, we have received candles and wax from local businesses, individuals, community groups and Churches! We have been packing it all into A4 printer paper boxes and as of May 2023 we have accumulated 30 boxes!
"Support for Ukraine" Display
We have created a "Support for Ukraine" Display at the entrance of the 'Ukraine Unit'. The display consists of our signed Ukrainian flags, military badges from Ukraine, artefacts from the front line and much more. It is hoped that a display such as this will raise awareness of what we are doing, attract people to visit us and also show people that in spite of the awful situation in Ukraine, we have still received tokens of gratitude from the people that we are helping.
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Thanks from Ukraine
In a lot of the boxes and bags of donations that we send to Ukraine, we tuck our logo inside and sometimes a letter of support to show the recipient that there are people who care and are trying to help them. Sometimes, we receive photos back from Ukraine and it is great to see how our donations are bringing at least a little bit of comfort and happiness during a difficult time.
Honours from Ukraine!
What an incredibly proud day for everyone associated with the Chorley & District Support for Ukraine group!
On Saturday 12th August 2023, we were honoured to be visited by Bishop Komar from the Sambir-Drohobytska Diocese in Ukraine. After being escorted around the ‘Ukraine Unit’ in Chorley (along with Fr Marsden of St. Mary’s Church, Chorley), the Bishop spoke and paid thanks to the Volunteers.
He surprised us all by presenting the group with a Commendation of Appreciation from Bishop Yaroslaw, Sambir-Drohobytska Diocese of the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church.
Furthermore, he then presented us with the Ukrainian Medal for Volunteer Work, validated by the Administration of Drohobych.
These honours are a testament to the dedicated work of all the volunteers and the generosity of everyone that has donated time, money and possessions to support Ukraine. I also believe that these awards stand as a measure of how much our efforts must be helping those in need.
On Saturday 12th August 2023, we were honoured to be visited by Bishop Komar from the Sambir-Drohobytska Diocese in Ukraine. After being escorted around the ‘Ukraine Unit’ in Chorley (along with Fr Marsden of St. Mary’s Church, Chorley), the Bishop spoke and paid thanks to the Volunteers.
He surprised us all by presenting the group with a Commendation of Appreciation from Bishop Yaroslaw, Sambir-Drohobytska Diocese of the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Church.
Furthermore, he then presented us with the Ukrainian Medal for Volunteer Work, validated by the Administration of Drohobych.
These honours are a testament to the dedicated work of all the volunteers and the generosity of everyone that has donated time, money and possessions to support Ukraine. I also believe that these awards stand as a measure of how much our efforts must be helping those in need.
MedEvac Vehicles from Chorley driven to Ukraine
The Chorley & District Support for Ukraine group have just delivered their most ambitious consignment of aid yet, as 5 men from Chorley drove two Medical Evacuation Vehicles into the country to hand over to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
On Saturday 26th August 2023 the ‘Ukraine Unit’ in Chorley town centre was abuzz with volunteers and guests as the vehicles were prepared for their long journey. Guests included Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the Mayor and Mayoress of Chorley, local Councillors, local Veterans of the British Armed Forces and nearly 100 supporters and well-wishers. The cars and donations were blessed by Fr Francis Marsden of St.Mary’s Church and the two MedEvac vehicles departed to a tune by Piper Ted Freaney.
On Saturday 26th August 2023 the ‘Ukraine Unit’ in Chorley town centre was abuzz with volunteers and guests as the vehicles were prepared for their long journey. Guests included Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the Mayor and Mayoress of Chorley, local Councillors, local Veterans of the British Armed Forces and nearly 100 supporters and well-wishers. The cars and donations were blessed by Fr Francis Marsden of St.Mary’s Church and the two MedEvac vehicles departed to a tune by Piper Ted Freaney.
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This was an incredible achievement by our group. We have been sending aid to Ukraine since the escalation of the conflict in 2022 but we felt we could do more. In just 8 weeks we raised enough money, from all across the world, to purchase two vehicles to take to Ukraine.
The drivers, Stuart Clewlow, Mike Fedorko, Oliver Fedorko, Frank Liszczyk, Andy Livingstone, with support from home by Peter Hesketh and Steve Norris, drove nearly 1,600 miles to the rendezvous point in Drohobych, Ukraine. As guests of Bishop Komar, who had recently visited Chorley, the cars were presented to representatives of the Ukrainian charity “Machok” and taken to their respective military units. The Volvo XC90 also carried the teddy bear mascot “Endure” and the Mitsubishi L200 was looked after by the mascot “Empathy”.
The drivers, Stuart Clewlow, Mike Fedorko, Oliver Fedorko, Frank Liszczyk, Andy Livingstone, with support from home by Peter Hesketh and Steve Norris, drove nearly 1,600 miles to the rendezvous point in Drohobych, Ukraine. As guests of Bishop Komar, who had recently visited Chorley, the cars were presented to representatives of the Ukrainian charity “Machok” and taken to their respective military units. The Volvo XC90 also carried the teddy bear mascot “Endure” and the Mitsubishi L200 was looked after by the mascot “Empathy”.
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Although the main asset was the cars themselves, the group also transported thousands of pounds worth of military supplies consisting of battlefield dressings, first aid kits, petrol generators, food supplement drinks, crutches, mobility aids and much more. A lot of this aid has already been distributed to units in Bakhmut, Mariupol, Kyiv, Kherson and other places.
We had a great reception in Ukraine. We had organised having the vehicles sprayed green and dressed with the Chorley coat of arms on top of the Ukrainian flag. As a result we received cheers and waves and lots of support when we stopped along the way. In Drohobych we were met by Bishop Komar and Stepan Kylunyak, the Head of the local Military Administration. We were thanked for our efforts but it’s important to say that the appreciation also extended to everyone at home that has supported this endeavour. We vowed to continue with our support for as long as we can and if possible, we will return with more vehicles and there will certainly be more humanitarian aid in the meantime.
The drivers were welcomed back in Chorley by the Mayor of Chorley Cllr Tommy Gray and the Mayoress. The group showed the Mayor the specially made Chorley & District flag that had been taken to Ukraine and back and is now on display. The Mayor took the opportunity to also thank all of the volunteers of the ‘Ukraine Unit’ and acknowledged that it was a great thing that had been done to help the people of Ukraine.
We had a great reception in Ukraine. We had organised having the vehicles sprayed green and dressed with the Chorley coat of arms on top of the Ukrainian flag. As a result we received cheers and waves and lots of support when we stopped along the way. In Drohobych we were met by Bishop Komar and Stepan Kylunyak, the Head of the local Military Administration. We were thanked for our efforts but it’s important to say that the appreciation also extended to everyone at home that has supported this endeavour. We vowed to continue with our support for as long as we can and if possible, we will return with more vehicles and there will certainly be more humanitarian aid in the meantime.
The drivers were welcomed back in Chorley by the Mayor of Chorley Cllr Tommy Gray and the Mayoress. The group showed the Mayor the specially made Chorley & District flag that had been taken to Ukraine and back and is now on display. The Mayor took the opportunity to also thank all of the volunteers of the ‘Ukraine Unit’ and acknowledged that it was a great thing that had been done to help the people of Ukraine.
The MedEvac Drivers with the Mayor & Mayoress of Chorley.
Two more MedEvacs for Ukraine!
At the end of November 2023, thanks to the generosity of people from all over the world, we were able to buy two more Medical Evacuation Vehicles for Ukraine. This time we bought a Mitsubishi Shogun and a Nissan XTrail.
The drivers were escorted by two more mascots, "Endear" and "Empower". The cars also contained a quantity of essential supplies and these including medical supplies, clothing, sleeping bags and three commodes for a Care Home facility in Drohobych.
The Drivers returned safely and brought back a Certificate of Appreciation from the Ukrainian charitable organisation "Machok" and a flag from the 110th Mechanized Brigade. Later a video of thanks was received from representatives of the 116th Brigade.
We are still raising funds to buy more MedEvacs - watch this space!
Milestone session at the 'Ukraine Unit'
On Saturday 3rd February 2024 the Chorley & District Support for Ukraine group opened the doors to the 'Ukraine Unit' donation centre for the 200th time. The occasion was acknowledged with a visit from Sir Lindsay Hoyle - MP for Chorley and Speaker of the House of Commons.
Sir Lindsay addressed the Volunteers and expressed his gratitude for the selfless service and efforts of everyone from the group, in order to support the people of Ukraine. He added that he was proud of what was being down in Chorley and that he would continue his own efforts in Westminster to show solidarity with Ukraine.
Following his visit, the Volunteers continued with another busy session of organising donations and by the end it another van load of supplies were palletised ready for sending out.
(With thanks to Oksana Hrychak for the photographs.)
Sir Lindsay addressed the Volunteers and expressed his gratitude for the selfless service and efforts of everyone from the group, in order to support the people of Ukraine. He added that he was proud of what was being down in Chorley and that he would continue his own efforts in Westminster to show solidarity with Ukraine.
Following his visit, the Volunteers continued with another busy session of organising donations and by the end it another van load of supplies were palletised ready for sending out.
(With thanks to Oksana Hrychak for the photographs.)
Second Year Anniversary - 2024
On Monday 26th February 2024 the second "Prayers for Ukraine" service was held at St. Laurence's Church in Chorley to acknowledge the second anniversary of the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine.
The service brought together the Chorley & District community and members of the Ukrainian community along with representatives of the local Churches. The service served to show our solidarity with Ukraine, the strength of our support and it provided an opportunity to reflect upon those who are facing hardship.
The service brought together the Chorley & District community and members of the Ukrainian community along with representatives of the local Churches. The service served to show our solidarity with Ukraine, the strength of our support and it provided an opportunity to reflect upon those who are facing hardship.
Find us on social media:
The Chorley & District Support for Ukraine group will continue for as long as it is needed. On Facebook it is helping to share up to date information, liaise with other similar groups, and to coordinate local donation collections. It has been necessary to create subsidiary groups in order to provide a place for specific items to be offered or requested and more recently, a local Ukraine Community group has been created.
Please click on the highlighted links to join...
* Chorley & District Support for Ukraine:
(4) Chorley & District Support for Ukraine | Facebook
* Chorley Donations for Ukraine Refugees:
(4) Chorley Donations for Ukraine Refugees | Facebook
* Chorley & District Ukraine Community:
(4) Chorley & District Ukraine Community Українська Громада | Facebook
Please click on the highlighted links to join...
* Chorley & District Support for Ukraine:
(4) Chorley & District Support for Ukraine | Facebook
* Chorley Donations for Ukraine Refugees:
(4) Chorley Donations for Ukraine Refugees | Facebook
* Chorley & District Ukraine Community:
(4) Chorley & District Ukraine Community Українська Громада | Facebook
We now coordinate our efforts and support through three Facebook groups.
Some of the members of the Chorley & District Support for Ukraine group at the donations unit, April 2022
Click on the links below and have a look at these videos to see some of our activity and how our group developed...
(316) Chorley & District Support for Ukraine - YouTube
(316) Chorley & District Support for Ukraine - Volunteers 12.3.22 - YouTube
(698) Chorley & District Support for Ukraine - Christmas Eve 2022 - YouTube
(316) Chorley & District Support for Ukraine - YouTube
(316) Chorley & District Support for Ukraine - Volunteers 12.3.22 - YouTube
(698) Chorley & District Support for Ukraine - Christmas Eve 2022 - YouTube
Volunteers from the Chorley & District Support for Ukraine group at the 50th open public session of the 'Ukraine Unit' in August 2022.
Volunteers at the 100th public open session of the 'Ukraine Unit' - 22nd February 2023.
Volunteers at the 150th public open session of the 'Ukraine Unit' - 16th August 2023.
We reached our 175th working session at the 'Ukraine Unit' on 11th November 2023.
The 500th pallet of aid left the 'Ukraine Unit' on 15th November 2023 and it was a pallet full of Christmas Gift Shoeboxes.
We reached our 200th working session at the 'Ukraine Unit' on 3rd February 2024 and received a visit from Sir Lindsay Hoyle - MP for Chorley & Speaker of the House of Commons.
On 27th March 2024, the 600th pallet of aid left the 'Ukraine Unit' and that particular one was loaded with life saving medical supplies.
Contact us:
If anyone has any specific queries but does not have access to message us through our groups on Facebook, please don't hesitate to email me at [email protected]
"Thank you to all the volunteers, all our followers and to everyone who has offered support. We can't influence the military aspects of this conflict, but we can make a difference to those being affected by it."
Stuart A. Clewlow
Co-ordinator, Chorley & District Support for Ukraine
Facebook: Chorley & District Support for Ukraine
X / Twitter: ChorleyUkraine
Instagram: chorleysupportforukraine
"Thank you to all the volunteers, all our followers and to everyone who has offered support. We can't influence the military aspects of this conflict, but we can make a difference to those being affected by it."
Stuart A. Clewlow
Co-ordinator, Chorley & District Support for Ukraine
Facebook: Chorley & District Support for Ukraine
X / Twitter: ChorleyUkraine
Instagram: chorleysupportforukraine