The Ukrainian community in Bury St Edmunds commemorated three years since the Russian invasion with a memorial plaque and Alder tree.
At 11am, the group began a procession, walking down Abbeygate Street towards Angel Hill. By noon, they arrived at Abbey Gardens. There, they unveiled a memorial, a plaque and Alder tree, planted for those who died for Ukraine.
Patrick Hanlon, chairman of West Suffolk Council, gave a speech. Reverend Canon Mark Haworth and Oxana Borissova also spoke, with Oxana representing the Ukrainian community.
Oxana said many, about seven million people, left Ukraine, thinking they would only be gone a short time. Now, England feels like a second home to them. She thanked the government and people for the much support and love Britain gave them.
Churches pray for Ukraine, she said, noting the Ukrainian flag flies near the council and schools welcome Ukrainian kids. England teaches them language and culture. People opened their homes to Ukrainians, sharing food, time, and life.
“We are truly grateful,” Oxana stated, ending with “Glory to Ukraine.” Diane Hind, mayor of Bury, also spoke, praising the town’s kindness and the residents who welcomed the Ukrainian refugees. She further expressed solidarity with the community.
Hind called Putin the aggressor and Ukrainians the victims. She wants peace for Ukraine and no more deaths and enjoys meeting Ukrainian people. She liked the permanent memorial and thought the service was good. Clergy chose their words carefully to help them remember their home, she noted.
Hanlon said the event had a great turnout and he was proud to represent the council, describing it as a very sad day. He found the Ukrainian people lovely and also liked the tree. He hopes people visit the memorial and remember what Ukraine goes through. He wants a path to the tree so people could lay flowers in winter then.