More than 150 Ukrainian refugees and their hosts celebrated Orthodox Christmas at Congleton Town Hall on Saturday 7th January.
The event was sponsored by Congleton Town Council and hosted by the Congleton Area Ukrainian Support Network (CAUSN) on the day many Ukrainians would traditionally celebrate Christmas.
The group’s aim is to support guests and sponsors, in the Congleton area, involved in the UK government’s Homes for Ukraine scheme.
The Orthodox Christmas celebrations began with a traditional service at St Peter’s Church conducted half in Ukrainian and half in English, along with some Ukrainian songs and music.
Guests then made their way to the town hall for a Ukrainian-style Christmas celebration.
Vic Brown, from CAUSN, said: “The party was organised in conjunction with some of the Ukrainian mums in order to give our Ukrainian guests the chance to unite together at Christmas time.
“Special thanks to Nadiia Holovchuk who was instrumental in pulling the day together.
“It was fantastic to see almost 110 adults and 40 children – some of whom were joined by their hosts – enjoy a wonderful party.
“The event included Ukrainian entertainment, carols, music, games and lots of conversation.
“Our younger guests enjoyed the face painting, crafts, magic show and a present which they might not have otherwise received.”
One of the highlights of the evening was a surprise magic show from Nick Barnes and other entertainers from the Dragoon’s Magic Club.
Congleton mayor, Cllr Margaret Gartside said: “Christmas is especially a time for children, it was heart-warming to see the joy on their little faces.
“Vic, Nadiia and their band of volunteers did a fantastic job arranging the celebration. It was poignant to see the flag of Ukraine flying from the town hall.
“Thank you to all the Congleton residents who have opened their homes to welcome in Ukrainian families, many separated from their own families.
“On behalf of the town, I would like to let our Ukrainian guests know we will continue to offer our support and solidarity.”
Later this month, the town council is organising an evening for hosts of Ukrainian families.
The event is intended for hosts rather than Ukrainian guests and is for adults.
It will provide an opportunity for people to get an update on how the scheme is going in the Congleton area, share experiences with other hosts, put questions to an expert panel and to pick up information and advice.
The event will take place at Congleton Town Hall on Friday 27th January, 6.30pm-8.30pm.
It is free to attend but places must be booked in advance on Eventbrite.
For more information on CAUSN, visit: www.causn.com
