A Ukrainian woman who was forced to flee her war-torn country has hailed the “wonderful and caring” people of Helensburgh who have taken her in.

Alina Atrepieva left the city of Kharkiv with her friend Yuliia earlier this year, leaving behind friends, family and many of her possessions, as the city came under severe attack from Russian forces.

The pair were taken in by the Horrell family in Helensburgh – and Alina, 30, spoke of her immense gratitude.

She told the Advertiser: “We are very lucky to have people who have taken us in as family in Helensburgh. The Horrells are very kind, sincere people, always ready to help.

“Helensburgh is a very peaceful, beautiful place with wonderful and caring people. We are extremely grateful to everyone for their support and help during what has been an extremely difficult time.”

For Richard Horrell and wife Margaret, it has been a pleasure to host their guests, albeit in such regrettable circumstances.

Richard said: “Margaret and I were pleased to welcome Alina and Yuliia to our home in June when they arrived in Scotland from Ukraine under the Scottish Super Sponsor scheme. They have settled in quite well to life in Scotland and have enjoyed being in Helensburgh.

“Finding jobs has not been easy but fortunately they now have an offer of employment in Glasgow, starting in October.”

Before fleeing Ukraine, Alina worked as an economist. She hopes to return to the country once the war is over.

Despite facing severe pressure from Russian forces, with many homes destroyed, Ukrainian officials struck an optimistic note in recent days, saying they are targeting towns in the eastern Donbas region after making a series of gains in a rapid counter-offensive.

In recent days Ukraine’s army reclaimed swathes of occupied territory, forcing Russian troops to retreat – and Alina remains hopeful of a positive outcome.

She continued: “I am sure that Ukraine will win soon. Truth and justice are on our side, the whole civilised world is on our side. We are not aggressors, but people who defend their native land, which we love very much; we appreciate every centimetre of it. This land was given to us by birthright and no one has the right to take it away from us.

“Our warriors are real heroes who do beyond their abilities. We are very proud of them and hope that they will soon return to their families and finally be able to live happily in their homes – but this requires the support of the world, to which we call on everyone.”

Over the weekend, Helensburgh Parish Church hosted a concert to raise funds for those affected by the conflict in Ukraine.

The event on Sunday, September 18 featured music from the Friendship Choir, comprising local singers and guests from Sweden, and a string ensemble, all conducted by musical director, David Bruce.

A selection of Scottish and Swedish songs were performed, as well as ‘Songs of Sentiment’ by Derek Clark, the church’s director of music, and his organ and string ensemble.

It is the latest fundraising event from Helensburgh Parish Church in aid of Ukraine.

An internal collection raised more than £11,000, while a street collection shared with other churches in the town which raised more than £1,700.

Alina painted a poster to help advertise the event and told how the process is cathartic for her.

“I’ve been into art since childhood,” she added.

“Drawing is an opportunity to throw out emotions that overwhelm me. I relax my soul while drawing; it’s like a kind of meditation for me.”