A former Leek College teacher has issued a plea to the Home Office to speed up his family's visa application so they can come with him to the UK after escaping Ukraine into Moldova.

Leek Nub News reported recently how 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.

The residents of Leek have been thanked for their generosity after thousands of pounds were raised for Harry and his family to help them get their lives back on track once they are able to reach the UK.

Since Harry is British he is free to return to the UK, but he would currently have to do so without his family - at least until they are issued visas.

Harry has now asked the Home Office to speed up the process, calling their procedures "shameful and shambolic".

He said: "We're are still waiting in Moldova for the final visa to arrive. We have received visas for my wife's daughter and grandson, but not for her, even though her application has been successful.

"My wife's visa application was completed on March 5th and she went for her biometrics, but because it was done under the old system, it looks as if she must pick it up on Wednesday, this is not good enough.

"I am not critical of my MP Karen Bradley or her amazing team who I truly believe have done all they can, thank you, but I am extremely critical of the shameful and shambolic procedures of the Home Office. I sent them an email outlining our problems, it really could not have been clearer, but we are still here waiting.

"I am beginning to feel unwell, probably brought on by stress, I spend much of the day pacing up and down, waiting for an email that never arrives.

"I am asking you to phone the press and explain our situation, beg them to get the government to pull their finger out and get us home. I fear that much longer in this limbo will create real problems for me. Please help us once more."

A JustGiving page for Harry and his family has been set up and has currently raised an amazing £7,295 thanks to the generosity of the people of Leek.

If you would like to donate then click here.