From Russia with love (From Warrington Guardian)

From Russia with love

PICTURESQUE and green!

That's how Russian Veronika Laird described her new hometown of Runcorn.

"I really like Runcorn," said Veronika, 27, who made history this week by taking part in Halton's first ever citizenship ceremony.

"Everything is different from Russia, the climate, the food, I miss my family but I really like it. Everyone is so polite and friendly. Runcorn is nice and green and picturesque."

Veronika moved to Brookvale, three and a half years ago from Yoshkar-ola in central Russia, after she met her husband, Don, a social worker.

Her parents, Tamara and Sasha flew to England for the first time to spend Christmas with them and watch her become a British citizen.

She took an oath of allegiance to the crown at Runcorn Town Hall, pledging to uphold the values and laws of the UK.

"I am really excited," said graduate Veronika, who works in an office in Warrington. "I am very honoured that the Mayor presented me with a certificate."

Halton Mayor, Cllr Pat Tyrrell, said: "Becoming a British citizen is something to celebrate. It means the right to live in freedom, the right to religion, or to no religion and the right of free speech in a democratic society, the right to vote, to have a voice in Britain.

"We welcome you as members of the community of Halton."

Egyptian Amir Habib also became a British citizen at the ceremony conducted by superintendent registrar Sandra Jones.