Ukrainian community says thank you to Dunoon with Ukrainian Independence Day gift

Ukrainian families who have made Dunoon their home are marking Ukrainian Independence Day by gifting a picnic bench to the town, as a heartfelt thank you for the welcome and support they have received throughout Argyll and Bute since leaving the war in Ukraine.

In Dunoon, as throughout Argyll and Bute, local residents, volunteers, community organisations and council teams have helped Ukrainian families settle, access services, make new connections and feel part of local life.

The picnic bench is intended as a small but meaningful symbol of friendship, gratitude and hope. It reflects both the appreciation felt by Ukrainian residents and the strong community spirit they have felt during their stay.

Luida Momotenko, on behalf of the Ukrainian community said: "When we arrived here, many of us had left behind our homes, families and everything familiar. The people of Dunoon, and Argyll and Bute, have shown us kindness, patience and friendship, and have helped us feel safe and welcome. This bench is our way of saying thank you. It is there as a place for people to sit, meet and enjoy time together and we hope it will be used by local people and visitors for many years to come."

Councillor Jan Brown, Depute Provost of Argyll and Bute Council, said: "This is a generous and welcome gift which will allow people to sit and reflect This gift is a lovely reminder of what communities can do when they come together with compassion and practical support. Ukrainian Independence Day is a powerful moment to recognise the courage and resilience of Ukraine's people, and to reaffirm our support for those who now call Argyll and Bute home."

The bench is installed next to the Glen Morag play park, at West Bay and unveiled at 12 noon on Monday 24 August. Members of the Ukrainian community, local residents and representatives from community organisations were invited to attend.