TWO retired ambulances from Jersey are due to be sent to Ukraine to aid life-saving charity work during the ongoing war.
The ambulances, which were recently taken out of service, have been donated by the government and will be loaded with aid supplies before making the 1,700-mile journey in mid-March.
Four local volunteers – Bob de la Haye, Rhys Perkins, John Howell, and Martin Pallot – will drive the ambulances
through France, Germany and into Poland, where they will join a convoy organised by UK charity Pick Ups for Peace for the final leg into Ukraine.
Since Russia invaded Ukraine on 24 February 2022, millions of people have been displaced and tens of thousands of civilians have been killed in a humanitarian crisis that is still unfolding.
Mr de la Haye, who previously delivered an ambulance to Ukraine in November, described that trip as a“very moving” experience.
The 73-year-old said one of the most emotional moments was visiting the Field of Mars military cemetery, where he saw “thousands of graves”.
Donations of medical supplies, toiletries, baby nappies, warm clothing and tools were being collected ahead of the trip.
Those wishing to contribute can contact Mr Howell on 07797 726206 or Mr de la Haye on 07797 731231.
Funds can also be donated via JustGiving at: justgiving.com/page/jersey-ambulance-for-ukraine-2024.
Mr de la Haye thanked Ernies, Normans, Acorn, St John Ambulance and many of his friends for their “kind donations”.
