FLOWER crowns, folk dancing and singing took place in Malmesbury to celebrate a traditional Ukrainian festival on Friday.

Volunteers from Malmesbury Stands With Ukraine group organised an Ukrainian midsummer festival called Ivana Kupala at the Cloister Gardens - behind Malmesbury Abbey - on Friday, July 7.

Ivana Kupala is the celebration of Ukrainian midsummer where they worship the summer solstice.

It also coincides with the Christian feast of the Nativity of St John the Baptist.

The colourful flower crowns that the festival goers wore in Malmesbury on Friday hold a special significance in Ukrainian folk culture.

Traditionally, at the festival single ladies looking love weave wild flowers and grass into what they call 'foral crowns' or 'vinoks'.

The crowns are put in the river and the young men then attempt to pull out the crown of their favourite lady and hope true love will follow. 

The Malmesbury Stands with Ukraine support group was formed in February 2022, inspired by Katya Manamsa, who had recently moved to the town from Ukraine.

Since its formation, the Malmesbury Stands with Ukraine group has held numerous events in the town, including an Abbey concert, a jazz and tea party and a pub quiz which have raised over £14,000.

Most of this has gone directly to Cherkassy Hospital in the heart of the frontline, who Katya’s mother Natasha has established a working relationship with.