Bruche girl in cycling challenge to support Ukraine appeal

Lilia Dohoney, from Bruche, is aiming to cycle at least 50 miles during the month of March in aid of Ukrainians displaced by conflict.

She chose to act after becoming upset seeing news photos and videos of families being split up due to the Russian invasion.

Lilia Dohoney is getting on her bike to help Ukrainians displaced by war

As a result, she has already raised hundreds of pounds to provide Ukrainian refugees with shelter, food and medical support.

“Lilia saw on social media the pictures of families being split up, where dads were leaving their families to fight and seeing the children leaving all their belongings behind,” said her dad, Gary.

“She tried to imagine what that would be like and thought that she should try and help where she could.

Lilia Dohoney is getting on her bike to help Ukrainians displaced by war

“Lilia is keen on exercise, from running to gymnastics, and she enjoys being out in the fresh air, which is why she chose to raise money by riding her bike.

“As well as cycling for the cause, she is also creating and selling bookmarks with sunflowers – the national flower of Ukraine – to raise extra money.”

Lilia started on March 7, as she only saw the images that weekend, and if she hits 50 miles before end of March, she will continue and see how many miles she can do.

Lilia Dohoney is getting on her bike to help Ukrainians displaced by war

She is currently cycling between five and six miles a day, three to four times a week, with all money raised going towards the Mail Force Ukraine Appeal.

At the time of writing, she raised £475 towards her initial target of £500.

If you would like to donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/gary-dohoney1