East Lothian pony group rush to offer aid for suffering in war-torn Ukraine

It is hard to imagine what life must be like in battle-weary Ukraine. People obviously come first. Ukrainians are innocent victims of unprovoked aggression inspired by Russian leader Vladimir Putin and need all the assistance they can get. Animals are accustomed to being on the receiving end of human aggression, particularly so during World War One. Indeed, it was their service and sacrifice which inspired The War Horse Memorial, a monument standing proudly in Ascot, Berkshire, to ensure their contribution in the fight for freedom will not be forgotten.

The current conflict is a reminder of the huge and tragic cost to life in standing up against a naked aggressor. Ukraine is bravely doing just that. A remarkable defiance to neighbouring Russia which started this war in the knowledge that its military might far outweighs that of its target.

Tragically this needless terror continues and lives continue to be lost daily. Inevitably animals suffer, too. We got a flavour of their hardship from our Australian Ambassador, Nigel Allsopp, who recently returned from a mission to that devastated country to provide help and support to animals, particularly dogs and horses, to the most affected areas for animals in need.

His story touched so many of you. None more so than Shona Brash, Mags Reid and Jackie Muller and the team at Seton Sands Community Ponies in East Lothian, Scotland.

SUPPORT FOR UKRAINE: Shona Brash with Indie Beau

Although it may seem like the whole of East Lothian is now knitting, it's mainly down to Lorraine Douglas, one amazing lady who has knitted poppies non-stop for us at The War Horse Memorial and started doing the same for Ukraine. Beautiful poppies in the national colours of blue and yellow.

All proceeds are sent to Alena, who lives in Kharkiv a city in the north-east of the country. She and her neighbour Denis buy humanitarian packs to distribute to the elderly and infirm and also pass on some of the money to Tanya – referred to with affection as the Amazing Cat Lady of Kharkiv– who has taken on scores of abandoned cats and continues to care for them. We never cease to be humbled by the generosity and kindness of the human spirit.