Somerset man makes 10th trip to Ukraine amid war

Ben Allen (far right) first went out to the country back in 2022 after Russia launched its full-scale invasion

A British aid worker has returned to Ukraine for the10th time, saying it is vital to keep supporting people there as the war with Russia continues.

Ben Allen, an architect from Charlton Adam, Somerset, first went out to the country back in 2022 when Russia launched its full-scale invasion.

He told BBC Points West the need for aid in the country was greater than ever.

"Last year, we were in Vovchansk distributing aid, and only six weeks later, it was invaded by Russian forces," he said.

Ben's work takes him to vulnerable towns and villages where he delivers everything from food and sanitary products to pet supplies for animal shelters

"Some of the people we helped are now dead. It makes you wonder if it was all pointless.

"But I think it's still important for Ukrainians to see support from the Western world."

Ben's work takes him to vulnerable towns and villages where he delivers everything from food and sanitary products to pet supplies for animal shelters.

He also brings toys and treats for children, delivers vehicles and supports rehabilitation centres for veterans.

Ben said his latest trip was not just about delivering aid but also about showing people in Ukraine they had not been forgotten.

Although he is not involved in the fighting, Ben (left) says delivering aid in a war zone comes with risks

Although he is not involved in the fighting, Ben said delivering aid in a war zone comes with risks.

"I've got warm weather gear," Ben said. "Then obviously torches for power cuts and, really importantly, body armour. We are close to the front line, and there is shelling and drones."

He added: "They love badges in Ukraine, so we pick them up and swap them for money."

Being in a war zone has left a lasting impact on Ben, he says.

When he is back home in Somerset, he sometimes has to take "a double take" at the sound of helicopters from nearby Yeovilton flying overhead.

"Everything you hear, you think, is that a bomb? Is it an air-raid siren? What do we do?" he said.

Despite the dangers, Ben said he would continue making the aid trips to Ukraine for as long as they were needed.