Ukrainian Independence Day was celebrated in Farnham’s Gostrey Meadow.

The town’s cohort of Ukrainian guests were keen to thank the local community for their support and so held a special event in Gostrey Meadow with the support of the town’s two Rotary clubs and Farnham Town Council.

The flag was raised outside the town council offices on August 24 and later flowers were placed under the flag in the meadow after a blessing from a Ukrainian priest to open the celebrations.

There were events for children during the afternoon including circus skills, craft stalls and face painting, organised by Farnham Weyside Rotary in the bandstand.

A number of talented young Ukrainians went along to help.

Music, provided by Mike Moore, played during the day, with a mixture of British and Ukrainian tunes.

In the evening there were displays of traditional dancing and typical Ukrainian food including borsch and veraniki were available.

Rotary continues to support Ukrainians both locally and in Ukraine.

Rotary fundraising across the world has raised more than 20 million dollars which is being used on a huge variety of projects from providing mobile clinics to supporting and educating children, helping treat PTSD, and assisting with de-mining work.

Funds are always needed and can be channelled through Rotary clubs with their international connections.