A town in Kent has become the first in the country to twin with a city in Ukraine since the war began.

Swanley officially twinned with the Fastiv in an official ceremony on Tuesday, August 22, as a mark of solidarity following the Russian invasion of the country.

The ceremony was held at the Swanley Civic Centre and broadcast online, with distinguished delegates from Fastiv, including the Mayor, present virtually from a secure underground facility.

Swanley Town Councillors voted unanimously in the meeting to support the twinning declaration.

The decision stands as a symbol of Swanley’s support for Fastiv and Ukraine during the ongoing war.

The joint meeting featured virtual presentation tours and heartfelt speeches.

Many Swanley residents have hosted Ukrainian refugees in their homes since the start of the war, building a strong local community with more than 126 people now in a WhatsApp group for the local area.

A Ukrainian living locally with strong ties to Fastiv first raised the suggestion of twinning and approached both the Mayors of Swanley and Fastiv to promote the agreement.

Swanley Mayor Cllr Michael Horwood has hosted ten refugees at his home since the start of the war.

He said: “It has been a year and a half since a significant number of Swanley families, equally outraged against the barbarity of the Russian invasion, opened their doors to host Ukrainian refugees, nearly all women and children, fleeing for safety.

“Almost all are working locally, and have become part of our Swanley community, joining us on our Swanley community litter picks, whilst others have supported in a variety of ways.

“This Twinning agreement marks an important part of not just Swanley’s history, but also creates an important milestone in the development of relations between the UK and Ukraine.

“We hope other communities across the UK may equally consider showing a sign of solidarity and thus increase the number of UK communities twinned with Ukrainian cities.”

Mr. Netyazhuk, Mayor of Fastiv City, said: “The twinning of our cities is a beacon of hope that shines through the darkness of challenge.

“We are deeply touched by Swanley's willingness to stand with us and create a bridge of understanding and cooperation.

“Together, we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead and build a better future."

Swanley Town Council’s CEO Ryan Hayman added: “This historic twinning is more than a mere ceremony; it is a pledge of solidarity, resilience, and a shared commitment to fostering a peaceful world.

“Swanley Town Council looks forward to a future of cultural exchange, collaborative projects, and mutual growth that will benefit both communities and send a strong message against conflict and division.”

Members of the local community, including some councillors from Swanley Town Council, hope to undertake an aid trip later this year, driving aid across Europe and delivering it to Fastiv directly.