An organisation celebrated Ukrainian Independence Day with an event about the country’s culture and fundraise to send an ambulance there.

Stand For Ukraine Brighton and Hove, which supports the Ukrainian community and promotes its culture and history, marked the occasion at All Saints Church in Hove on Saturday.

There was music from Ukrainian and British performers, Ukrainian cuisine, artisan crafts and family activities, all organised by volunteers.

Among them was Iryna Olyanovska, who moved to Brighton from Odessa in Ukraine 27 years ago while she was pregnant with her daughter, Larissa.

Iryna and her daughter Larissa, aged 27Iryna and her daughter Larissa, aged 26 (Image: The Argus)

She said: “The country achieved independence in 1991. Since the war has started, that’s what we’re still fighting for.

“For us it was important before, but now during the wartime it has become very important to celebrate something so sacred and important to every Ukrainian heart.

“The event is both to celebrate and educate people on Ukraine. That’s why we have information boards up today.

“We also want to welcome Ukrainians, for them to have a local bit of home here. We are grateful to Brighton for welcoming us.”

Brighton and Hove Mayor Mohammed Asaduzzaman attended and gave a speech to guests.

The mayor gave a speech at the eventThe Mayor gave a speech at the event (Image: The Argus)

He said: “The war has displaced millions and left a trail of destruction and heartache. But amidst heartache we have witnessed incredible solidarity.

“The outpouring of support from nations around the world has shown that the human soul can endure even the greatest of trials.”

On display was an ambulance sourced by Pick Ups For Peace, an organisation which takes vehicles and humanitarian aid to countries in need.

Chris Monks, 57, is set to drive Amy the ambulance to Kharkiv on September 11, which will be his 14th vehicle delivery to the country. He estimates it will take him six to seven days.

Amy the ambulance will be taken to Ukraine in SeptemberThe event raised funds for fuel costs to get the ambulance to Ukraine (Image: The Argus)

Chris, from Bristol, volunteers for organisations across the UK to support Ukraine. Although he has no connection to Ukraine, he is passionate about doing what he can.

He said: “If we do not help Ukraine to fight, it will be the next country and then the next country. We are all worried. It’s that simple.”