A library for Ukrainians has opened in Reading to provide comfort for people who have fled war.

The town has had a substantial Ukrainian community prior to the full-scale invasion of the country by Russian military forces in February 2022, reflected in the community centre for Ukrainians in Sidmouth Street.

The number of Ukrainians in Reading has increased as people have sought refuge from the escalating war.

According to statistics, 131 Ukrainians in 62 family groups arrived in Reading thanks to the government's Homes for Ukraine scheme.

Now, a library containing a range of books in the Ukrainian language for those of all ages has been opened at the Reading Ukrainian Community Centre in Sidmouth Street.

The opening ceremony involved songs from a Ukrainian choir, refreshments and speeches from guests.

Matt Rodda, the Labour MP for Reading Central, said: "It's an incredible privilege to be here to lend my support to the community centre and the library.

"It's amazing, and in very difficult circumstances with the ongoing war and particularly the recent increase in violence which is horrific.

"To hear the way that Ukrainian families are able to take some comfort with this is absolutely amazing and really heartwarming.

"I hope that the library goes from strength to strength, allowing children, their parents and older people to still feel a really deep connection with Ukraine while in Reading."

Terry Dixon, a renowned Reading tour guide who spoke at the opening said: "I'm extremely privileged to be invited here.

"I must say that I'm dyslexic. When I was young, I ran away from books.

"My Dad was very clever, he gave me magazines and books with pictures.

"What I am proud of is this wonderful legacy that you have here."

After the speeches, Mr Rodda and Mr Dixon cut the ribbon, opening the library, with guests enjoying food and drinks.

The ceremony was also attended by councillor Glenn Dennis (Labour, Kentwood), the Mayor of Reading, and cllr Rachel Eden (Labour, Whitley) who served as mayor in 2022.

Cllr Eden led an appeal to support the community centre during her tenure, with the library being one of the projects that received generous donations thanks to that appeal.

The opening ceremony took place on Monday, September 16.

Mr Rodda added: "It was a privilege to be able to help open the library, which I hope will make a real difference to Ukrainian people living in Reading and further afield.

"This important project will help people stay in touch with their own culture and memories of their home at a very difficult time.

"I heard how people were travelling from as far away as Oxford and London to come to the library to read books in Ukrainian and talk to other members of the community, so it's clear that the library is already making an impact.

"I would encourage residents who want to help to make a donation."