In a community fundraising event, the children of Ringwood and their families united in The Furlong shopping centre courtyard to show their solidarity, support and compassion for all the people being affected by the conflict in Ukraine.

Hundreds of handmade doves, made by local store Love to b, were hung on the illuminated ‘peace’ tree in the centre of the courtyard. Each dove had a personalised heartfelt message written on it. Many messages were written by young children and included “never lose hope”, “we are thinking of you” and “out of darkness you will find light”. There was also face painting with the Ukrainian flag, a colouring in craft table and tea lights symbolising hope for the children to hold during the event.

The Rev Adam Skirton from Poulner Baptist Church read a poem he had written especially for the event, called Hear our Cry. Katerina Di Monaco, a member of his Poulner congregation and a Ukrainian citizen, translated the poem for the viewers watching the live video link from Ukraine.

This event, attended by the town mayor, Cllr Tony Ring, has raised over £5,516 for the Disaster Emergency Committee with more donations still coming in as Love to b continue to offer the doves of peace from their Ringwood store. Every penny raised will go to the charities supported by the DEC, to help with vital humanitarian aid for those suffering in Ukraine.