LOCALS in Swindon enjoyed Ukrainian cuisine as part of an event to raise money for the continued relief effort as the war there rages on. 

After Ukrainian recipes were shared among colleagues at Bowman House, Royal Wootton Bassett, local packaging BioVirons decided to hold an event to raise funds for Ukraine while allowing others to sample traditional Ukrainian dishes.

On offer for people were honey cakes and cherry pancakes made by Ukrainian ladies Bohdana and Ola. 

Suzanne Gore of Bowman House provided classic Ukrainian doughnuts after searching through lots of recipes.

And BioViron's CEO Bruce Bodio and partner Bev also drummed up some savoury dishes which are known by many names.

Swindon Advertiser: A packed 'Taste of Ukraine' event as Royal Wootton Bassett locals enjoy honey cakes, cherry pancakes, Ukrainian doughnuts and other Eastern-European delicacies - all for charity.A packed 'Taste of Ukraine' event as Royal Wootton Bassett locals enjoy honey cakes, cherry pancakes, Ukrainian doughnuts and other Eastern-European delicacies - all for charity. (Image: Bruce Bodio)

"We call them Perohe and Holupchi," they said, adding, "Bruce’s father was from Ukraine and we have carried on the traditions.

"It was lovely to see the event attended by business colleagues but also we had several people from within the town and as far as London.

"As the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine escalates, please help those affected with humanitarian and medical aid: items for their immediate emergency and ongoing needs, medical supplies, hygiene packs, first aid kits, transportation, evacuation and critical services."

To date, the event has raised £914 for British-Ukrainian Aid through a combination of ticket sales, a JustGiving page and pledges.