VILLAGERS near Winchester have raised funds to take supplies to Ukraine.

Their van, branded 'Help from Hampshire', left Stoke Charity yesterday afternoon (Friday) on a long journey across central Europe.

The group are focussing on what the Ukrainians say their refugees need, such as personal hygiene and sanitary products.

READ MORE: Hundreds lay candles and daffodils at Winchester Cathedral in emotional vigil for Ukraine

Organiser John Caulcutt, taking a break from loading the van to speak to the Chronicle, said: "We are sending items that the Ukrainians have specifically requested.

"This is an initiative in Stoke Charity and Hunton that recognises the failure of our government to show any type of humanitarian spirit to the Ukrainian refugees."

Going on the trip are Brian Karoly, Paul Biffin and Tom Paine.

Hampshire Chronicle: The 'Help from Hampshire' van before its departure yesterday evening

Mr Caulcutt, who runs a medical supply company Plane Talking in Colden Common, said he had spoken to contacts in Ukraine who told him what was needed.

"They don't want clothes, but they do want hygiene packs, shampoo, tooth brushes, sanitisers. We want to show our solidarity and that the Brits do care. We are recognising the fact that people have travelled days and slept in cellars, on trains and wherever. They know on crossing into Poland and Hungary that we are giving them a gift that says we care."

Mr Caulcutt said the goods were worth several thousands pounds. He hopes the trip will be the first of many and he is set to obtain 23 ambulances which he plans to move to the Ukraine if he can find the drivers.

He said many Stoke Charity and Hunton villagers who will open their houses to refugees once they have obtained the visas the Government requires.

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