There is not a lot of good news these days for the many Ukrainians forced to flee from Putin's illegal and totally inhumane invasion of their country. 

However last weekend there were plenty of smiles for 15 of our Congleton friends due to the generosity of a delightful campsite (Wyreside Lakes - https://wyresidelakes.co.uk) . The site, which is set in beautiful open countryside just outside Garstang, offered the group free use of its luxury camping 'pods' for the weekend. The trip organiser, Vic Brown explains.

"I am part of a volunteer support group in Congleton [Congleton Area Ukraine Support Network]. After the success of a day out at Formby this summer, I decided to organise another trip for a few of our more needy Ukrainian friends. When I asked Wyreside Lakes if they could help they were delighted to offer free accommodation. "

Site Manager Sally Hughes added "We have wanted to offer something for some time but it proved difficult because we are in a very rural location with no public transport.  I am so pleased that we have been able to do a little to bring some smiles to these lovely people"

The group travelled up from Congleton on the 4th November in the Congleton Partnership minibus from New Life Church and after briefly settling-in at the site spent Friday evening in Blackpool enjoying the lights and something of the excitement and colour of this famous seaside resort. 

More lights followed on Saturday when the group travelled up to Lancaster for their outstanding 'Light Up Lancaster' weekend. Despite the wet weather during the day they enjoyed a dazzling firework display, and spent time taking in the numerous other light and laser displays through out the town.  The Lancaster Visitor Information Centre did a great job sorting at wrist bands, so the group had a 'ring-side' seat at the Giant Axe football stadium.  An enterprising member of the Ukrainian group also managed to negotiate a free guided visit to Lancaster Castle and the former Prison.

On Sunday, tired and a little bleary-eyed, the group enjoyed the hospitality of the famous Leighton Moss Nature Reserve, taking in the sights and sounds of the reserve and Morecambe Bay.

In the words of the Ukrainians "We Want to thank everyone in Lancashire who made us so welcome and Congleton Area Ukraine Support Network"

"Though we find it impossible to stop worrying about the terrible things happening to our friends and relatives so far away in our country, we are so grateful for the help and support that we are receiving, especially from the people of Congleton and surrounding villages. 

"The weekend was something special which will stay in our minds for many years."

There are more than 150 Ukrainian guests in the Congleton area,

See Also: Clonter Opera Theatre to host 'Concert for Ukraine' this winter