A SKIPTON support group for Ukrainian refugees organised a get together in Aireville Park for families and their hosts.

Despite cloudy skies, around 50 people from Skipton, which is a 'town of sanctuary' and the surrounding area went along on Saturday for a game of rounders and a picnic.

It was organised by Ruth Sharples and Ann Whittaker of Skipton Support for Ukrainian Refugees, who with the help of an army of volunteers, have run coffee mornings, pop-up shops, and swimming and beach outings, all aimed at helping refugees staying in the town.

Ruth said: “We try to make sure that everyone, the families staying here, but also the hosts, have everything they need.

"That can range from the very practical, such as car seats or bikes, to the more supportive. Getting Ukrainian families together so that they can share experiences and support each other is really rewarding.”

There are currently more than 100 Ukrainian refugees in the area having travelled here under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme and arriving steadily arriving since April.

Jane Rogers, who together with husband, Nick, welcomed a family of three to their home in Carleton, said: “Like everyone else we’d seen the news reports and found them incredibly moving.

“We’d previously applied for a similar scheme for Afghan refugees but were refused on the grounds that we lived in a village. However, a village can be a great introduction to the UK. Carleton is small but there are three families here. If you have just arrived, the geography of a village isn’t overwhelming, plus everyone, from the local school to local businesses have been so welcoming. And the support we’ve had through Ruth, Ann and the others has been awesome.”

The group has a facebook page and Ann Whitaker of the support group thinks this is key to helping people settle.

“People need to feel part of a community. Lots of our Ukrainian guests have joined the group. It’s an instant way to find other Ukrainians in the area. It’s been a privilege to help; we’ve met some wonderful people."

She added what was now clear however that more hosts were needed.

"The war isn’t going away and those that have found a home here are desperate to bring friends and family to safety. If you’ve thought about hosting, the group can put you in touch with a host in your area."

Jane added: “It’s not something to take on lightly. If you want to chat it through, get in touch. For us it’s been a good experience. We’ve loved our family and we’ve learnt such a lot. They are moving on in the next few weeks. The plan is that they will be closer to family elsewhere in the country. We’ll keep in touch though. And, once we’ve had a rest, we’ll probably host again. It seems a shame not to do it again.”

Skipton Support for Ukrainian Refugees can be found on Facebook. Jane said: "Please do join if you want to help. We have volunteers offering all sorts of practical help, from English conversation to transport. And if you’re thinking about hosting please text 07518733239 and we will call back."