An open letter from Duncan Baker, MP for North Norfolk
On Sunday 12th February 2023, a team of six North Norfolk residents and Duncan Baker MP, in three
transit vans, set off on the 2,000 mile journey to Ukraine to deliver 112 generators and other aid, to
those suffering in the war.
Just before Christmas, Putin began bombing civilian targets and energy infrastructures causing
blackouts in homes across Ukraine and leaving many without light, heat and power. This spurred the
team to begin raising funds in order to provide generators.
The people of North Norfolk and from wider Norfolk responded phenomenally and raised £18,500 in
online donations. Some people chose to donate their unused generators, and some bought generators
to specifically donate to the cause. It was an incredible outcome and one that is greatly appreciated.
Once in Lviv, in Western Ukraine, the group met up with the military aid organisation run by Svitlana
Legka that was suggested by Anna Kolomiichuck, the Ukrainian lady that Duncan Baker MP has hosted
and supported since the beginning of the war. They explained that the generators would be going to
schools, orphanages, hospitals and other vulnerable people who are the in the worst hit areas of
Ukraine.
Whilst staying in Lviv overnight, the air raid siren was activated, and many hotel guests were moved to
the basement for cover. The following morning it was confirmed that energy infrastructure just outside
of the city was hit.
Upon their return journey, Duncan Baker took a lady, her 10 year old daughter, and their pet Marty, the
French Bulldog, back to England in his van, to provide them safe passage whist fleeing the country after
their home was destroyed. They are now being hosted by a family in Guildford.
The team of 7 included Duncan Baker MP, Rob Scammell, Paul East, Jayne Morton, Michelle Foulkes,
Leon Calder and Anna Kolomiichuck. They returned home safely but exhausted on Saturday 25th
February.
Duncan Baker and the team wish to express their thanks. “We cannot thank our constituents enough for
their generosity in helping us take aid to Ukraine. It was a long and tiring journey, but the chance to
support and help those in desperate need once again puts North Norfolk on the map. Thank you to
everyone who made a donation, we could not have done this without you.”
