MP hosts first Ukrainian community event

An event to support those who have fled the conflict in Ukraine and their hosts was held last night by Rutland and Melton MP Alicia Kearns.

The MP, supported by Melton Borough Council, Harborough District Council and Rutland County Council, hosted Rutland and Melton’s first Ukrainian Community Event at Ferneleys Ice Cream Parlour In Whissendine.

Mark Andrews (Chief Executive of Rutland County Council), Edd de Coverly (Chief Executive of Melton Borough Council), Alicia Kearns MP, Cllr Malise Graham (Melton Borough Council Lead for Communities), Cllr Phil King (Leader of Harborough District Council)

The evening saw Ukrainians and their hosts come together for the first time, to meet and begin to build friendships and a network of support across the constituency.

Stalls from each Council were there to provide help, guidance and answer any questions, along with those from both Rutland and Leicestershire Adult Learning Services giving out details of courses to support learning English and employability.

Firefighters from Melton Mowbray Fire and Rescue Station were also present to provide information regarding fire safety at home.

Alicia Kearns, MP for Rutland and Melton, said: “I have been moved by the generosity of the hosts across Rutland and Melton who have opened up their homes to our Ukrainian friends and am extremely proud of the community we are beginning to build.

I know that the Ukrainians who have chosen to come to Rutland and Melton have been struck with how beautiful our towns and villages are and the warm welcome they have received.

I am extremely grateful to Ferneleys for hosting our first Ukrainian Community Event and thanks also to Melton Borough Council, Harborough District Council and Rutland County Council who have generously supported the event.

It was wonderful that so many people were able to attend, along with the Ukrainian Embassy and our incredible local Fire Service.”