We were very lucky and honoured here, at the Museum of Ryde, to have been visited recently by two Ukrainian ladies, Olha and Victoria. They were very interested in the Museum and soon after their arrival, we started chatting. Olha fled the Ukrainian city of Kherson with her daughter and their cat a year ago and have faced many challenges since they arrived in the UK, including enrolling her daughter in school. Olha is an artist, writes poetry, and used to organize artistic events in Ukraine. She was even preparing to shoot a short film about Kherson’s streets, with the rehearsal already scheduled when the war started.“That was the day they bombed airports simultaneously across the country. Public transport stopped running from our city. The frontline ran straight to our city and a week later we found ourselves under occupation. One morning changed our lives, and that of every Ukrainian family, forever.” Victoria is a doctor, and worked as a paediatrician in Ukraine; she also fled the country with her daughter. She is struggling to get her degree recognised, but as Ukraine is not part of the EU, the chances are slim. Victoria has applied to work as a Healthcare

The Ghost of Ryde exhibition is a must-visit event for anyone who loves spooky stories and history. The exhibition is being held at the Museum of Ryde from 23rd to 31st October. The museum is located in the underground of the Royal Arcade in Ryde, Union street, PO33 2LQ 123. The exhibition offers a range of activities for visitors, including a Halloween Treasure Hunt, Kids Colouring, and more. Visitors can also explore the museum’s unique ice well and discover the story of refrigeration. The museum is open from Monday to Saturday 11am to 4pm (last entry 3.30pm). Admission for adults is £4, while under 16s can enter for free. If you’re looking for a fun and spooky way to spend your Halloween week, be sure to check out the Ghost of Ryde exhibition at the Museum of Ryde!

A talk by Malcolm Cox entitled “Isle of Wight Scouts at War” will take place on Thursday, 14th September 2023, at Yelf’s Hotel, Union Street, Ryde, starting 7.30 pm, doors open 7.00 pm. Entry £4, HRS member £3. Everybody is welcome to help raising funds to keep open The Museum of Ryde.