A Ukrainian group that was set up in the wake of the Russian invasion has brought some festive joy to a Southampton shopping centre.
The group of 10 Ukrainian women met in the Marlands Shopping Centre on Saturday to share their culture and sing carols.
The group was formed two years ago, after the war in Ukraine started, and aimed to bring together many Ukrainians living in the city.
But speaking at the shopping centre, they told the Echo that the war is “hopeless” and that it “feels as if it may never end.”
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Carol singing lead, Liliya Pavalaki, 38, said that the group meet for two hours every Tuesday to rehearse.
She said: “Most of our husbands, sons and parents are still at home – that is why it is great for us all to get together and celebrate our culture at this special time of year.
“We came here with no language or idea of culture; we only knew the UK from the movies.
“With what is happening in Gaza a lot of people in the UK have forgotten what is happening in Ukraine. Women and children are still dying every day.
“We pray every day that one day we will wake up and it will be safe to go home.”
Last year the group sang carols outside of Westquay, which was attended by the Lord Mayor.
The group all wore Ukrainian-style scarfs that were kitted with colourful flowers - a very popular garment in Ukraine - in a tribute to their home country.
Olena Aleksandrovych, 36, said: “I came to Southampton after the Russian invasion in 2014.
“The political situation in Ukraine changed a lot at that time and many people came to the UK.
“Even after that, no one expected what happened in 2022.
“My sisters, cousins and nephews are still out there. It is like they are living in a different reality to us here.”
Oksana Osrovska, 40, said: “Southampton has my heart – I love this city as I used to sell cruises in Ukraine and so I was familiar with the city.
“I don’t like to think about the war. Last year we thought it would last a month or two but now it feels like it may never end. It feels hopeless.
“My husband and brother are in Ukraine. When we get some information from home we are always very nervous.”
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