Two friends leave St Helens to help with war effort in Ukraine

Thomas Plumpton, from Sutton, and Jake Tunstall, from Moss Bank, left St Helens for Ukraine on Tuesday, March 1 after watching the worrying events unfold over the past week.

Both dads to two young children, the pair said that they "need to do something" and help displaced families and refugees in whatever way they can.

Thomas, 30, and Jake, 28, flew to Poland from Liverpool John Lennon Airport on a plane "full of volunteers" on Tuesday, and crossed the Ukrainian border this morning (Thursday, March 3) via coach travel.

Thomas and Jake on their way into Ukraine

Speaking to the Star, Thomas' mum Laura said that the pair are currently heading to refugee camps inside Ukraine to provide essential items to displaced families fleeing from the Russian invasion.

As Thomas and Jake arrived at a military camp at the Polish-Ukrainian border, they were also given a "survival kit" and military training from soldiers - "just in case" they need to defend themselves.

Speaking about his experience in Ukraine so far, Laura said: "Thomas has called me and said it's horrendous.

"He said there are so many people at the military camp, with children crying, mothers trying to keep all their family together, and fathers saying goodbye.

"I think it's hard to put into perspective until you're actually there and in your face. It's frightening and I think they have both been close to tears."

Laura explained that Thomas, a groundworker who works across St Helens, and Jake will stay in Ukraine "as long as they are needed".

The pair are also asking for donations to help with the refugee effort and help themselves, and other volunteers, get to wherever they need to be.

Laura added: "I've not really slept because I'm that worried, but I am so proud of him.

"The amount of support he's had from people in St Helens has been amazing."

Thomas and another volunteer on the Polish-Ukrainian border

To donate towards Thomas and Jake's war effort, visit this link