Having found safety in the fine city, a woman who fled the war in Ukraine has been promoting the cultural similarities of her homeland with the UK.

Humanitarian volunteer Iryna Forostyan, 63, arrived in Norwich from Ukraine last May, where her family remain – including her younger brother and nephews who are among those joining the military response to Russia's invasion. 

Iryna said: “When I decided to leave, it was a very hard decision and not something I did lightly.  

“It didn’t feel real, it was like a movie – like I was watching myself and my life from the outside.  

“I don’t know why, but my mind could just not accept what was happening, it felt impossible. 

“To see your neighbours' homes with black smoke coming from them.  

“And the sound, I don’t even know how to describe it but there is a horrible sound all the time and you are scared, but not just scared for yourself. 

“I’m scared for my brother and nephew – these people are fighting and they need food and medicine.” 

Norwich Evening News: Just some of the things on display at Castle Quarter Just some of the things on display at Castle Quarter (Image: INFO ART FRONTIER UA)

This weekend the Castle Quarter shopping centre is hosting the 'Ancient Ukraine - Britanii: Common Heritage' exhibition. 

The free event at Castle Social tells the story of the connection between Ukraine and the UK, including royal links and Celtic connections. 

The exhibition also explores the richness of the Ukrainian heritage for over 8,000 years and includes photographs documenting the current conflict. 

Those attending are also treated to an authentic Ukrainian musical performance from EKA, a singer and bandura player – one of the symbols of identity in Ukraine. 

“Norwich is a place where people are very welcoming of refugees – and I am happy to run events where people can see that our cultures are not too dissimilar," said Iryna.  

“Both Norwich and Ukraine have much diversity – and my personal experience is that it is very easy to make friends in this city.  

“I have met people that I will be friends with forever.” 

This is why Iryna still volunteers, creating Info Art Frontier UA to raise awareness, share stories and make sure people are still listening.  

Iryna added: “We will rebuild Ukraine – but for now, I send news of these events to the front line, and they thank me, it helps to boost spirits.  

“But I thank them.” 

This event runs until 5pm Sunday January 22.