The residents of Leek have been thanked for their generosity after over £5,000 was raised for a former Leek College teacher who became trapped in Ukraine following the Russian invasion.

Leek Nub News reported recently how Harry Richardson, who taught English at Leek College, became trapped in Ukraine following the Russian invasion after moving there around three years ago with his Ukrainian wife, Alina.

Harry is now waiting in Moldova with his family, who are currently trying to arrange visas to come to the UK.

Thousands of pounds has already been raised for Harry and his family once they manage to reach the UK, with the JustGiving page currently sitting at over £6,500.

And the fundraising isn't stopping there, with the possibility of a charity quiz being organised soon as well.

Local resident Susie Thorpe, who is helping to organise the fundraising effort, said: "On behalf of Harry Richardson , Alina Richardson, Mike Goldstraw [Harry's friend who is also helping to raise money] and myself, I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every person who has donated to our Just Giving page, or offered help in the form of clothing, furnishings, and furniture.

"The response has been immense, and we are all so very humbled and grateful. Today we reached our target of £5,000 to help with Harry's resettlement in the UK. I can't believe how quickly it's been reached. I see it as a reflection of the respect and love the town has for Harry, and the despair and helplessness that we all feel about what is going on in the Ukraine.

"I shall keep the page open for a few more days, so that anyone who still wants to donate can, and to cover the fees that JustGiving take, so that Harry can get the full £5000 or more.

"I am also trying to organise a charity online quiz with the fabulous Ben Knight for Friday 18th March, the proceeds of which will be added to Harry's total. We quiz with Ben regularly, it's always a fun evening, and it would be nice for our quizzing community to come together with Harry's friends to enjoy a light-hearted evening together.

"Once again, we thank all of you from the bottom of our hearts, for all that you have done, and all that you continue to do to help Harry, Alina, and the people of the Ukraine."

The JustGiving page is still open, and if you would like to donate click here.