Ukrainian guests meet Father Christmas in Heathfield

Cllr Ray Cade stepped in as Santa for Ukrainian refugees in Wealden

In their first Christmas as guests of Wealden hosts, Ukranian refugees met Santa this week at his grotto in Heathfield.

Conservative councillor Ray Cade stepped in to the role, appropriate enough as the man at Wealden District Council responsible for issues concerning the Homes for Ukraine scheme.

“I was delighted to accept the Heathfield Ukraine support group’s invitation to be Father Christmas at their Christmas children's party,” said Cllr Cade.

“Appropriately dressed, I was introduced to the gathering including Ukrainian children and their parents,” he added. “I then distributed Christmas presents to 20 children, who were very excited with the occasion.”

In his Cabinet role at Wealden, Cllr Cade has been heavily involved in advising and supporting local community groups that have formed to support the host families and their Ukrainian guests.

“At the Union Church party, everyone enjoyed a meal produced largely by the Ukrainian families amid a very lively and celebratory atmosphere”, explained Cllr Cade.

Ukrainians celebrate Christmas in a similar way to us, with carols and exchange of presents. This event manged to create some form of normality for the Ukrainian guests in Wealden, albeit the current worrying situation at home was discussed among the adults.

“It was a great afternoon and I was pleased to be able to make a contribution to the enjoyment”, added Cllr Cade.