‘Ukraine needs forklift trucks!’ call to Badenoch and Strathspey supporters
Leading local politicians are backing a new appeal in Badenoch and Strathspey to help Ukrainians fight their battle against Putin and Trump - with forklift trucks.
BASMA, the Badenoch and Strathspey Minibus Association, led a hugely successful campaign to help Ukrainian refugees living locally after Russia’s invasion.
From the outset of the Russian aggression three years ago, the association set up a network of hosting families and organised days out to local attractions and lunches to give the hosts and their guests an opportunity to get together and discuss their situation.
BASMA used the minibuses to transport the guests from their point of arrival to their hosts accommodation wherever possible and helped with transportation to appointments locally and further afield.
Its cycle appeal resulted in more than 80 bikes being refurbished for the Ukrainians staying with hosts or in the hotels in Aviemore.
Now, as association spokesman Frank Anderson explained, the need is to send direct help to the war-ravaged country.
There is no shortage of aid pouring in from those opposed to Trump and Putin’s hostilities but dealing with it all has become ever more difficult, Mr Anderson said.
“FORTUNA is a Ukrainian Volunteer Group helping with supplies to individuals, families and troops,” he said.
“They have been working tirelessly since the start of the war and are now asking for help.
“Unloading and reloading for onward distribution, the items which have been donated are being undertaken by hand.
“This work is now being done by more senior members of the community as most younger people are directly involved with the war effort.
“FORTUNA needs a forklift truck to make things a little easier.
Mr Anderson added: “They are in touch with Ukrainians in most European countries who are on the lookout for a good refurbished machine.
“New, these machines are not cheap, however a good second hand machine would be extremely helpful.”
BASMA, as with the 2022 cycle appeal, will match fund the first £2000 raised.
“Any donations would be wonderful.”
Endorsement of the campaign came yesterday from both Highland Council convener Bill Lobban in Aviemore and local MSP Fergus Ewing.
Mr Ewing, member for Inverness and Nairn (SNP), told the Strathy: ““This is an excellent initiative because it offers some of the practical help that people in Ukraine must now desperately need. “So I encourage Strathy readers to support this charitable effort and contribute towards its success.
“Doing our bit for the people of Ukraine, the target of dictator Putin’s aggression, is a good thing and a worthy cause.”
Councillor Lobban (Independent) echoed the sentiments: “Ukraine is still fighting for its very survival and the situation has become ever more precarious thanks to Trump and his pro-Russian policies.
“They desperately need all the help we can give them so please donate what you can no matter how large or small the beleaguered free people of Ukraine will appreciate it."
Video and appeal information is also available at the new BASMA website: basmabus.co.uk under Our Appeals heading.
The website was designed and commissioned by one of the strath’s Ukrainian guests who is now studying at Glasgow University.
Mr Anderson explained: “He’s doing it as a thank-you for what we have been doing to help his family and others.”
Donations can be made to the BASMA Bank of Scotland Account: Badenoch & Strathspey Minibus Association; Sort Code: 80-05-40 & Account No: 00174884
For more details email basmasec@btinternet.com .
