The Mayor of Hailsham led tributes at a special wreath-laying service which was held at the Hailsham War Memorial on Wednesday [9 March], an act of remembrance held to show solidarity with the people of Ukraine who have lost everything following the Russian invasion.
The Town Mayor Councillor Paul Holbrook joined other local councillors for the observing of a one-minute silence and laying of a wreath on behalf of the Town Council and residents of Hailsham.
Grateful to everyone who took time out to attend, Councillor Holbrook said: “The Remembrance Service was an opportunity and a time for us to reflect and show our empathy and solidarity to the people of Ukraine. I and my colleagues at the Town Council are saddened and appalled by the ongoing situation in Ukraine.”
“It truly is hard to believe that this is happening in Europe in the 21st century, and we can only hope that Russia ceases this offensive before too many more innocent civilian lives are lost.”
With the assistance of volunteers, the Town Mayor has to date raised funds from local residents and businesses amounting to just under £2,000, proceeds of which will go to humanitarian aid charities.
Councillor Holbrook added: “The tragic scenes which have taken place in Ukraine this past couple of weeks have made many people in Hailsham look for ways they can personally help. Reflecting back to the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic which showed that people in Hailsham have a true, caring community spirit and can rally support in times of need, for the people in Ukraine, this time is now and many are in desperate need of humanitarian aid.”
“We are all shocked by the unprovoked attack and invasion of Ukraine, a democratic and sovereign country, and the Town Council is keen to promote on its social media channels any fundraising or relief aid activities being carried out locally for Ukraine. We encourage local organisations to get in touch.”
“We stand with Ukraine and our thoughts and prayers are with them at this very difficult time. We are all hopeful of a peaceful end and just want to demonstrate that we are behind the people of Ukraine.”
How Can You Help?
The Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) brings together 15 leading UK aid charities, raising funds to effectively respond to overseas disasters. DEC Charities are in Ukraine and neighbouring countries meeting the needs of all refugees and displaced people. Donations can be made via their website:
Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal | Disasters Emergency Committee (dec.org.uk)
Financial Donations:
Any amount of money given can go a long way to help those in need. Charities include:
Terry Hall, Communications Officer
Hailsham Town Council, Market Street, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2AE
Telephone: 01323 841702 | Email: terry.hall@hailsham-tc.gov.uk