We were delighted to welcome David Fox-Pitt, MBE as speaker to our meeting of 17th February. David told us of the charity ‘HopeFull’ (formerly Siobhan's Trust) and its work in Ukraine.

Forty seven club members, family and friends came together at the meeting for a meal followed by David’s excellent presentation about the charity, which has worked in Ukraine since the Russian invasion in February 2022, providing hope, aid - and pizzas.

We heard of the work of more than 500 volunteers who made this remarkable enterprise possible. Especially of the positive contribution made in support of the Ukrainian people—travelling over 600,000 km and serving over 2.5 million pizzas in more than 1,800 locations across the country. As David said ‘this represents over 2.5 million smiles!’ He said it has been the privilege of his life. 

We heard too of the sponsors, donors, and supporters who helped make it all possible. In particular, ‘Dr. Oetker’ and ‘ITALPIZZA’, who donated over 2 million pizzas over the three years. There have also been some 12 truckloads of aid across Ukraine (through TASH4Ukraine), multiple press trips, and cross-party MP visits.

Altogether this was a story that demonstrated the good that is possible in the most dreadful of circumstances inflicted upon Ukraine. Following questions vice president Derek proposed a vote of thanks. A retiral collection was also made and raised £550 for the charity. The charity website is at (https://www.hopefull.org.uk)