St. Columba's Parish Church, Stewarton, hosted "A Taste of the Ukraine" on Saturday 27th March, when almost £500 was raised to help Ella, a Ukrainian woman, who is caring for orphan children in her own home over there.

The event was run by church member Neil MacCallum, an Economist whose work frequently takes him to the Ukraine. Neil's business partner, Nataliia Hinde of Ikon International, their student friend Christie Levein and Ukrainian friend Helena provided a delicious lunch and entertained us with music and dance. Children were invited to enter a little competition and were awarded various prizes.

The team was joined by Mr. Jim Gillies, a retired electrician from Cumbernauld . Jim has been specially honoured by the Ukrainian Consul in Edinburgh for his work for the Ukraine in the past 20 years.

Local businesses rallied round and sponsored the event generously. The Church is most grateful to all who participated and supported in any way - and is very glad to have been part of this event.

You can see photos from this event and read more news from the Church on the St. Columba's Parish Church webpage.