Ukraine receives war backing from Dalmellington as country's flag proudly flies in town centre

dailyrecord.co.uk:

It's planted in the centre of a roundabout and flutters proudly in the breeze.But this particular Ukrainian flag hasn't been displayed in war-torn Kyiv or Mairupol – it is on show in the centre of Dalmellington.Locals in the quiet East Ayrshire market town have nailed their colours to the mast after Ukraine was invaded last month by president Vladimir Putin's Russian forces.The flag could be seen in the centre of the town on Saturday lunchtime, just off the High Street, and close to the Dalmellington Inn and Doon Tavern boozers.Folk going about their weekend business didn't seem to care much about the flag's presence – but it certainly stood out to passing motorists.One local said: "I've no idea when the flag went up but I don't think it is bothering anybody.

People want to show a bit of solidarity with Ukraine and what the people are going through."Heroic Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy this week called for global protests to mark one month since the start of the war in his country.Millions of people have fled for their lives as a result of the catastrophic situation while thousands have died as a result of fierce fighting and shelling.Ayrshire as a region has stepped up to the plate to support refugees looking for safety – and those who have been left behind.Three lorries packed with vital supplies were sent to Eastern Europe after a big-hearted effort in Mauchline orchestrated by Mossgiel Organic Farm.The Two Dumplings Polish shop in Ayr was overwhelmed with items while young people at Troon's Marr College directed a donation drive and are also raising money for the worldwide emergency DEC appeal.East, North and South Ayrshire councils, meanwhile, have offered their support and solidarity to Ukraine and are