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The Ukrainian community in Maidenhead lit candles and prayed for loved ones as the country marked its Independence Day.
Each year, Ukrainians gather on August 24 to celebrate the nation’s independence from the USSR in 1991.
Hundreds of Ukrainians have moved to Maidenhead since the Russian invasion of their homeland.
Last week a group of almost 50 people met at the United Reformed Church, in West Street, to poignantly observe the occasion.
Prayers took place for soldiers and Ukrainian citizens and a minute’s silence was held for all those who have died in the conflict.
The group then walked to Maidenhead Town Hall where they shared stories of their homeland, sang the national anthem and listened to poems from famous Ukrainian poets about the importance of freedom.
Ivan Petrinets, 16, moved with his mother Marii, to Maidenhead from the Lviv region following the Russian invasion last year.
He told the Advertiser that Independence Day has become even more important to the people of Ukraine since the conflict began.
“Its been 32 years since we had freedom from the USSR. Every independence day is so important for us but in this moment when there is war, it’s doubly important,” said Ivan.
“It’s important not only for us, but all of the people that care about Ukraine.
“It’s always a special day.”
The teenager said the Maidenhead community has been welcoming to the Ukrainians who now call the town home but explained how he still misses his homeland.
Ivan added: “The home is not just a place, it’s about people, memories and your life.
“It’s quite difficult when you move to a new country with new people but we are people, we are the same.”
