Local Ukrainian community appeals for help following repeated vandalism
Members of the Ukrainian community in Ilkley are appealing to local residents for help following a series of incidents in which a small Ukrainian community area in the park has been repeatedly vandalised.
Four years ago, following the arrival of Ukrainians seeking safety in the area, members of the local Ukrainian community bought and installed a bench in the Riverside Gardens at their own expense. The bench was painted in the colours of the Ukrainian flag and a plaque was installed expressing the community’s gratitude to the people of Ilkley for the kindness and support shown to Ukrainian refugees.
Since then, Ukrainian volunteers have continued to care for the area, planting flowers and trees and maintaining the space. Volunteers have also contributed to the wider park by helping to repair, paint and maintain other benches and areas.
For the Ukrainian community, this voluntary work has been an opportunity to give something back to the town that welcomed so many people displaced by the war in Ukraine.
However, the Ukrainian corner has recently been the subject of repeated vandalism. Flowers have been pulled out, a vase containing flowers was stolen, the bench was removed from its position and damaged, and the commemorative plaque was scratched. Most recently the bench was covered in Mud.
The community sayd it does not wish to speculate about who may be responsible or the reasons behind the incidents. Its immediate concern is simply to see the vandalism stop and to ensure that the area can continue to be enjoyed and respected by everyone.
Residents living nearby who may have CCTV or doorbell-camera footage that could help establish what happened are asked to check their recordings and, where appropriate, share any relevant information with the police.
The incidents will also be reported to the police so that there is an official record.
A spokesperson for the local Ukrainian community said: “Ilkley has shown Ukrainians an extraordinary amount of kindness over the past four years, and we remain deeply grateful for the welcome and support we have received.
“This little corner of the park was created as a simple expression of that gratitude. The bench and the flowers represent friendship, kindness and the connection that has grown between Ukrainians and the people of Ilkley.
“It is therefore very upsetting to see the area repeatedly damaged. We do not want to make accusations or speculate about anyone’s motives. We simply hope that these incidents will stop and that the space can continue to be a positive symbol of friendship and mutual respect.”
