Hexham MP, Guy Opperman, has visited Ukrainians who have resettled in Northumberland as part of the UK Government's 'Homes for Ukraine' scheme, as the country marked two years since Russia's invasion in February 2022.
Mr Opperman was welcomed at the Hexham Abbey by the Ukranian community, as well as representatives from 'Hexham Help for Ukraine,' a local volunteering group set up in February 2022, when the war broke out. The group continues to offer advice and support to Ukrainians in Northumberland, such as how to access NHS services, and local employment services.
As part of the visit to the Abbey, Mr Opperman was shown the recently unveiled 'Tapestry of Life,' created by Ukranian artist, Yuliia Achkasova, and 14 volunteers. The tapestry depicts icons from both Ukraine and Northumberland, representing the close bond between the two communities since the war and is on display until Friday 29 March.
Commenting on the Tapestry of Life, Wendy Brady, volunteer at Hexham Help for Ukraine said:
'It has been wonderful to be part of the journey of the 'tapestry of life' over the last six months and realising Yuliia Achkasova's vision.
The textile artwork has brought people together from all over the Community from Hexham, Wylam,Stonehaugh and Falstone.
Thank you to all involved and who have supported this journey, the Curate Revd Dr Henry Hope from Hexham Abbey for his continual support and kindness in the Journey of Peace performance and allowing us to display the art work in the Abbey until Good Friday, 29th March 2024.
I want to also thank Guy and his team for continuing to support us and the Ukranian community.'
Reflecting on the visit, Guy Opperman MP said:
'It was a genuine pleasure to see some of the same faces I helped resettle in Northumberland through the Homes for Ukraine scheme two years ago.
'The tapestry of life is simply breathtaking, and it really brings home how intertwined our lives are with the struggle our Ukrainian friends have endured. Northumberland's response to the war in Ukraine still fills me with pride to this day, and it warms the heart to see the Ukranian community fully engaged with day-to-day life in Northumberland.
'I want to pay tribute to both our Ukranian guests, who we now proudly call our neighbours, and the many volunteers who have helped them along the way.'