Romsey group makes 385 trench candles for Ukraine soldiers

Ukrainians from the Romsey area, along with their supporters and allies, met at Woodley Scout Hall to undertake various tasks in the production process.

This involved repurposing empty food tins by filling them with corrugated cardboard and melted wax.

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The volunteers during the candle-making session (Image: Rachel Brinton Matthews) The candles are an effective and efficient source of both heat and light for frontline troops in Ukraine, particularly valuable during the long winter months.

There is evidence that the candles are greatly needed and valued by the soldiers.

All ages participated in the candle-making workshop, with a separate area allocated for children to create drawings to accompany the candles.

The group managed to produce around 385 trench candles, which will be delivered to New Forest For Ukraine to be added to one of its regular overland transports to Ukraine, where they will be sent on to the frontline.

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Commenting on the event, one of the organisers Roland Matthews said: "This was the first time we had tried to make these candles in bulk, so we were delighted with the public response and are very grateful to everyone who took part.

"At a time when our thoughts are focused on the casualties of war with the upcoming Remembrance Day commemoration, it felt very appropriate to be involved with an activity offering direct support to those who are fighting right now to preserve our freedom."

The Romsey Ukraine Support Group plans to run another candle-making workshop early in the new year.

It is encouraging anyone interested in learning more or offering help to get in touch with Roland Matthews at roljmat@gmail.com or 01794 518275.