TOWN leaders have invited residents to join them at a special midsummer festival in Malmesbury later this week.

Volunteers from Malmesbury Stands With Ukraine group have organised a traditional Ivana Kupla festival to celebrate Ukrainian culture at the Cloister Gardens - behind Malmesbury Abbey - between 6pm to 9pm on Friday, July 7.

Attendees can enjoy traditional flower crown-making, colouring, music and dancing.

Although there will be a bar for thirsty dancers visitors have been advised to bring a picnic, a blanket and chairs and flowers from their gardens if they wish to make a crown.

There are approximately 900 Ukrainians in Wiltshire and the organisers of this event estimate that around 100 live in the greater Malmesbury area. 

This summer solstice festival is celebrated by Ukrainians around the world and traditionally involves fire jumping, weaving, eating and dancing. 

A small-scale event was held in the town last year but this year's event promises to be a bigger celebration.

One of the organisers Liz Cook said: “This simple, traditional cultural event will enables us to celebrate something positive here in Malmesbury with our Ukrainian guests and their hosts.

"We want to continue to show our support for the people of Ukraine and in particular the Ukrainian guests currently staying in Malmesbury, Tetbury and surrounding villages.”

Mayor of Malmesbury Gavin Grant said: “Ivan Kupala is a Ukrainian cultural event - it's their midsummer festival.

"By hosting in the Cloister Gardens behind Malmesbury Abbey, we are enabling local residents to join our Ukrainian friends to experience the traditions of the festival.

"For us, it’s an important act of solidarity, at a very difficult time for Ukraine.”

The Malmesbury Stands with Ukraine support group was formed in February 2022, inspired by Katya Manamsa, who had recently moved to the town.

She said: “Ukraine has a long and rich history of culture - this is what Ukrainians are fighting for, as well as their freedom and existence.

"The festival will share a tiny bit of the rich history and culture with Ukrainians in our area, and say thank you to Malmesbury for its welcome and support."

Katya also suggests that for the traditional music and folk dancing "boho outfits are optional, but highly encouraged".

Since its formation, the Malmesbury Stands with Ukraine group has held numerous events in the town, including an Abbey concert, a jazz and tea party and a pub quiz which have raised over £14,000.

Most of this has gone directly to Cherkassy Hospital in the heart of the frontline, with whom Katya’s mother Natasha has established a working relationship.

Entrance to the event is free, but people are asked to register on Eventbrite tinyurl.com/bdd4ch9m