Ukrainian and British communities enjoy meal together

A Ukrainian community living on Tyneside wanted to give back to the people who made them feel so welcome.

Alona Mochulska, Cedarwood community connector in the Meadow Well area, arranged for a team of volunteers to cook a meal in the charity's kitchen.

Borscht was on the menu, a traditional stew which is a staple in Ukrainian households.

"When I'm cooking this dish I always remember about my home," said Alona, "it's the most important, it's about emotions."

"I feel here like it is my second home in the UK and if I cook my traditional dishes in my second home it becomes more close to my heart," said Valerie Kharytonova, who came to the North East in May 2022.