Bolton boy travels to Poland to mark anniversary of war in Ukraine

Milan Kumar was invited by the Consulate General of Ukraine to spend his half-term holidays at various locations with a busy itinerary to support Ukraine’s disadvantaged children. 

Milan, who met the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and wife Akshata Murty at 10 Downing Street last year, and who has been recognised for his work to help disadvantaged children, has been extending his support on an international scale to Ukrainian orphans. 

And whilst he is in Poland close by the Polish and Ukrainian border, Milan handed out 50 books to Ukrainian children living in Poland.

Milan with a young pupil in Poland (Image: Daxa Kumar)The children have been evacuated from regions occupied by the Russians and have continued their studies according to the Ukrainian curriculum.

However, these children required books in the Ukrainian language which Milan handed out.

Milan said: “I love reading and learning about the world through books and I want to help as many children as possible discover the magic of reading and all the great benefits it comes with.”

Irina Yaremchuk, Vice Consulate General of Ukraine in Krakow, said: “The children are temporarily in Poland and will return to Ukraine when the situation is safe, and Russia stops its barbaric attacks on civilian infrastructure and residential areas.”

Read more of our top stories here:

• Ukraine War memorial services to take place to commemorate anniversary

• Midwife receives vital donations to support lifesaving work

• Bolton: Latest planning applications lodged across borough

Milan playing the saxophone (Image: Daxa Kumar)Milan has also been keeping the children entertained with music.

He is a saxophone beginner and wanted to do something extra special for the children, so within a short number of days Milan learned to play the Ukrainian National Anthem.

Milan received a standing ovation after he gave a heart-warming performance and in turn, pupils presented guests with creative performances by demonstrating their vocal and dancing abilities.

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at chloe.wilson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on X @chloewjourno.