A NORTHWICH couple have spearheaded a mission deliver three ambulances to the frontline in Ukraine.
Paula and Paul Williams, of Weaverham, drove the second-hand vehicles, loaded with vital medical supplies, across Europe with the help of friends and colleagues.
The ambulances are now in action providing a lifeline to the wounded in Ukraine as the conflict continues to rage almost two years on from Russia's invasion.
Tears flowed as the crew handed over the keys to a Ukrainian aid team, eight miles from country's border.
Paula said: “We were greeted with hugs and gifts from such a wonderful group of deeply grateful and brave people.
"We packed as much as we could on the vehicles such as medical supplies, clothes, toys and crutches.
"They have a high mileage – one is a retired St John’s Ambulance – but can still do the job and the same afternoon they were on the frontline."
The couple were inspired to help by their Ukrainian connections obtained over the years.
Paul, a retired financial director and former borough councillor, listed the first Ukraine company on the London Stock Exchange and they were also touched by their local Ukrainian GP’s effort to raise money.
Paula is the regional managing director with insurance brokers The County Group, which made fundraising for the ambulances, as part of British-Ukrainian Aid, its chosen charity of 2023.
Colleagues threw their weight behind the appeal and, after a huge push across the firm's 35 UK branches, more than £20,000 was raised to purchase the three vehicles.
Now, following an epic journey from Kent to Poland, via France, Belgium and Germany, the six-strong team have all returned safely back home.
Paula added: "The medical infrastructure has suffered badly in Ukraine and on the frontline, 4x4s are being used to rescue casualties.
"This is where the ambulances have already come into their own, transporting the wounded back to main hospitals. We continue to receive pictures from our new friends over there.
"We were delighted to be part of this special mission - and thanks to everyone at The County Group, what started off as a hope of buying just one ambulance, has ended in three now in operation and saving lives."
The ambulances, which received a blessing at St Mary's Church in Weaverham, arrived at The County Group's Crewe Business Park HQ to cheers before they were given a special send off on their journey.
The company's CEO, Alastair Christopherson, said: "Although spread across the country, this shows what can be achieved when a team pull together.
"This force for good has been inspirational and we can only hope the vehicles save many lives.
"Although less in the headlines now, we also hope this effort shows the Ukraine people that we are still very much behind them."
Anyone who can support the continued fundraising can donate via justgiving.com/fundraising/thecountygroup
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