A CULTURAL event held in Conwy last weekend raised thousands to support Ukraine, little more than a year on since the war-town country was first invaded by Russia.

The took place at St Mary’s Church on Saturday, March 4, and featured musical performances, a presentation about Ukraine, souvenirs and hand-made gifts, cakes, and a raffle.

A total of £4,008.25 was raised, which will be used to buy essential medical kits and partially fund an evacuation vehicle for the wounded.

North Wales Pioneer: The Ukraine cultural event at St Mary's Church, ConwyThe Ukraine cultural event at St Mary's Church, Conwy (Image: Anthony Harrison)

Helen Denning, of Llandudno but originally from Ukraine, helped organise the event.

She said: “The concert was very moving, and the presentation about Ukraine was informative and interesting at the same time.

“The performers did their very best to introduce Ukrainian music to their audience. There were piano and violin duets, piano solo performances, children's singing, and solo dancing. 

North Wales Pioneer: The Ukraine cultural event at St Mary's Church, ConwyThe Ukraine cultural event at St Mary's Church, Conwy (Image: Anthony Harrison)

“We hope everyone enjoyed our event. A special thanks goes to our wonderful, devoted performers  and volunteers. Thank you to everyone who supports us.”

After the concert, mayor of Llandudno, Carol Marubbi, offered to auction a huge chocolate Easter egg donated by Baravelli's artisan chocolatiers in Conwy.

It was bought for £100, and its new owner is planning to go even further, by selling it on via Facebook to raise more money for Ukraine.

North Wales Pioneer: Cakes made for the Ukraine cultural event at St Mary's Church, ConwyCakes made for the Ukraine cultural event at St Mary's Church, Conwy (Image: Anthony Harrison)

Raffle prizes included a voucher for afternoon tea for two at The Castle Hotel in Conwy, flower arrangements donated by Daisy Chain and Conwy Strollers, a voucher from Edwards of Conwy Butchers, a basket of sweets from The Conwy Sweet Shop and many prizes from Cllr Marubbi.

There were also refreshments, including cakes baked by Ukrainian ladies.

Previously, four such events had been organised across Denbighshire and Conwy.

Money raised has been used to help fund the purchases of items such as medical supplies, a night vision device to assist in clearing Ukrainian territories of mines, and a car for a combat zone.