A FOOD giant’s boss has said more than 100,000 meals could be sent to Ukrainian refugees if a major fundraising campaign hits its target.

The Colchester to Ukraine campaign was launched to send an articulated lorry load of essential aid to those in need, with a view to scheduling regular deliveries.

Being managed by World Food Aid and Lion Walk Shopping Centre, the campaign is being spearheaded by Colchester shopping centre manager Martin Leatherdale, Colchester mayor Robert Davidson and representatives from Colchester High Street’s George Hotel.

With a target of £25,000, well wishers have already managed to raise more than £13,000 in a matter of weeks.

The Harwich-based food giant Surya Foods has played a major role in the appeal by providing transport and production of food.

The firm has also donated £10,000 to get the fundraiser going, and is confident thousands of people could benefit if the appeal succeeds.

Suki Dulai, chief executive of Surya Foods, said: “Surya Foods already has established transport routes through Europe, we understand the customs system and we can procure and produce food at very low prices – much lower than if you buy an item from a supermarket and donate it.

“That means every pound goes further. We also have the capacity to dispatch articulated lorries, so we can transport significant amounts of food in one drop.

“There are literally millions of mouths to feed, now, so there really is no time to waste in reaching our first target which is essentially to raise £25,000 – enough to send 100,000 meals direct to Ukrainian refugees.”

The Ukrainian appeal is also being supported by a number of Colchester organisations, from Community 360, the Foodbank, Anti Loo Roll Brigade and Colchester Community Facebook Group to Rotary Club, the council and Colchester Business Improvement District – Our Colchester.

Colchester mayor Robert Davidson said: “We should be proud to be part of such a caring community.

“Everyone I have met since the Ukrainian invasion is appalled by Russia’s indiscriminate attacks on the civilian population.

“Our community is keen to help and together we can help provide support and essential goods for the refugees and those remaining in Ukraine The Lion Walk donation hub is open between 11am and 3pm.

To support the appeal, visit gofundme.com/f/colchester-to-ukraine.