PLUMPTON’s garden centre is on its way to delivering its 8th, 9th and 10th medical vehicle to Ukraine's frontline.

The Pot Place has been generating funds since 2022 for the country in conflict, and is now en route personally delivering a fleet of vehicles by driving across European borders. 

Setting off on July 11, the group's fleet includes a four-wheel drive Nissan Ambulance, a former NHS Peugeot ambulance, and a Skoda car, all filled with medical aid to help those in need.

The team is not only meeting its usual contacts from the Lviv EMS but has also arranged a meetup with fellow Cumbrian, Steve Hodgson, who now resides in the Odessa region of Ukraine.

Hodgson's charity, Vezha will receive the Peugeot ambulance as a donation for use as a mobile medical centre to support doctors working in the area.

Another charity, Angels of Life, will be receiving the Nissan four-wheel drive vehicle.

They are known for their crucial work in frontline areas, evacuating those in need of urgent medical treatment.

The Skoda car, generously donated by local vet Felicity Kerr of Craig Robinsons, will be given to frontline medics by the Lviv EMS.

Co-owner of the garden centre Paul Thomas said the team are “hoping to meet up with The Pot Place’s  Ukrainian ‘daughter’ Kateryna”, a former employee who arrived under the Homes for Ukraine scheme.

“Kateryna is now back in Kharkiv where things have become very dangerous in the last few months.

“She will stay there though to support her husband who is on the frontline even though she only sees him now and then.

“We will be back by the end of next week no doubt with a new list of vehicles and equipment that is required and so appeal number nine will begin,” he said.

To contribute to The Pot Place's ongoing fundraiser, visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/the-pot-place-ambulances-for-ukraine?utm_term=DwbzdQG3v