CHURCHES from across Ayr have joined forces alongside the local Ukrainian community group to host a fund-raising event.

The various congregations and community group will be hosting an afternoon filled with entertainment in a bid to raise cash for the Ukraine Appeal of the Disaster Emergency Committee.

The event will be held at St James' Parish Church on Prestwick Road on Saturday, May 18, from 12 noon.

The event aims to showcase a peaceful collaboration between the two cultures of Scotland and Ukraine to delight those in attendance.

Members of the Ukrainian Community Group in South Ayrshire will serve up authentic Ukrainian food, and both Scottish and Ukrainian entertainment is lined up for the afternoon. 

This event will be the latest held by the local church community as they forge ever closer links with Ukrainian families who came to live in the area after Russian forces invaded their homeland more than two years ago.

Church members first gathered in Wellington Square to show support in March 2022.

Ever since they have met at the town's war memorial during spring and summer, as well as in various churches during the winter months, to pray for peace in Ukraine and in the world.

Their first fundraiser was held in October 2023 with nearly £1,000 donated as a result.

The congregations say they are pleased to be able to collaborate with the Ukraine Community Group South Ayrshire, one of the largest in Scotland, once again.

Reverend Dr Barbara Suchanek-Seitz, minister at St James' Parish Church, said: “It is important to remember the daily suffering of the Ukrainian people and to support them where we can.

"We hope that events such as the one planned on May 18 will not only raise awareness of the ongoing conflict but also deepen the friendship between Scotland and Ukraine on a local level.”