FUNDS are being raised to cover the costs of a 'much-loved' Ukrainian refugee who fled to South Cumbria and has tragically died from cancer.

Yuri Serbin died last week due to bowel cancer which was only diagnosed in February.

To support the funeral costs, Anna Gorst, of the Arnside Homes for Ukraine group, is fundraising on behalf of Yuri's wife Elena, their family, sponsors, and the Ukrainian community in the village.

Yuri and his wife Elena joined the village in October after fleeing the Russian invasion from their hometown of Kryvyi Rih in Ukraine.

They were then placed with their sponsors Neil and Jocelyn.

At the end of February Yuri was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer.

He received treatment from the NHS staff at Westmorland General Hospital and the Royal Lancaster Infirmary.

However the cancer was too advanced.

Neil said: "As his health rapidly deteriorated we sought our MP Tim Farron's help securing an emergency visa for his daughter Dasha to leave Ukraine to join her parents here with us.

"Her presence brought him great comfort."

However he died on June 7 at Royal Lancaster Infirmary.

Yuri's son, who is fighting on the frontlines in eastern Ukraine, was unable to see his father before he died.

"Yuri had great strength of character and a great sense of humour," said Neil.

"He became very popular with our Ukrainian guests and their hosts. We smile when we remember Yuri singing his heart out in Ukrainian with fellow guests in front of a packed house at the Arnside Sailing Club and playing Snakes and Ladders after our Christmas meal together."

Anna remembered Yuri as a 'very brave man.'

She said: "He had been an underground rescue worker in coal mines, quarries and caves. Once he retired from his undercover rescue work, Yuri organised music gigs and festivals.

"He was a big fan of British rock music. The sounds of Pink Floyd, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and King Crimson rolled around Neil and Jocelyn's house.

"A kind and much-loved member of our community, Yuri had a big heart and gave the biggest hugs. He is much missed, and we are supporting his wife, Elena, to fund the cremation and the funeral service he deserves."

To make a donation, visit: https://gofund.me/a9c50e48