Nearly 30,000 baby items gifted to Ukraine

The Knit and Natter group started to send items to Ukraine in March 2022

About 29,000 knitted items have been sent from Guernsey to Ukraine through the Stand with Ukraine, new born baby hats appeal.

Islanders have knitted items such as baby hats, blankets, vests and comforters for Ukrainians, who are pregnant or have young babies, fleeing the Russian invasion.

Donations were first sent shortly after the invasion began on 24 February 2022.

The women who have knitted items for the appeal said they would continue to help as long as they were needed.

Julie Duquemin said the group enjoyed getting together to see what everyone had made

Julie Duquemin, from the group, said: "We enjoy getting together, it does us all good to have a chat, a giggle and a laugh.

"To see what everyone has made as well - some people do very little and some people actually produce mountains."

She continued: "They make all sorts. We've got some beautiful jumpers, we've got hand sewn dresses... hats made on looms, so a huge selection."

The charity said it would keep on sending aid while it was needed.

Organiser Lilita Kruze said: "I have to say I'm sitting here with a group of lovely ladies and all I can say is just thank you from the bottom of my heart.

"There are so many groups like this group here. So many individuals in Guernsey who are doing this incredible work.

"Basically what we are doing is spreading love, care and compassion and that is so important. So thank you."

'Support can't be over-estimated'

Colin Wood, a Guernseyman who lives in Odessa - a major seaport on the coast of the Black Sea, said: "As well as the actual delivery of the aid. It is the knowledge that people outside Ukraine are collecting things and sending things.

"The moral support can't be over estimated. Knowing that other people are supporting us and going out of their way."

Since he moved there, he had experienced missile attacks and alarms on a regular basis.

He said: "Very quickly people just got used to it and even though there's explosions, even though people are dying. Everyone is just carrying on and living their own lives."

Mr Wood said when he is in the garden with his wife they can hear and see missiles flying overhead.