Weymouth barber says he is proud of his son helping refugees in Poltava, Ukraine

Steve Hopcroft said 26-year-old Yan has stayed in the country to help those seeking refuge from the invading Russians.

Mr Hopcroft, 62, owns Steve's Barbers, in King Street, and said he and his Ukrainian wife Olha, 48, are proud of Yan but fear for his safety after news of civilian casualties.

READ MORE: Ukraine appeal: Newsquest launch #ThereWithUkraine campaign - how to help

Steve Hopcroft, aged 62, inside his barbers in King Street. Picture: Sam McKeown

He said: "Yan lives in Poltava, a city in Ukraine.

"He could have fled, but he has decided to stay and help other people coming to that city who are fleeing the violence and to help his friends.

"He has told me he's filled with national pride and he will defend Ukraine if need be. I'm very proud of him, but I'm extremely concerned.

"My son told me the reason people are fleeing to Poltava is that it is of no strategic importance to the Russians at this time."

However, Mr Hopcroft said the supplies, as well as accommodation in the city, are fast running out.

"My son has told me thousands of people have poured into Poltava to seek refuge," he said.

"The shops are fast running out of supplies and accommodation is becoming desolate.

"From what Yan tells me, it sounds like it's descending into chaos.

"He also said it is very difficult to reach any neighbouring country's border, due to the treacherous terrain and uncertainty."

Steve Hopcroft, aged 62, outside his barbers in King Street. Picture: Sam McKeown

Mr Hopcroft, who grew up in London, met Olha in Kyiv after visiting the capital. They soon married in Poltava, and stayed there for a time before moving to Weymouth.

Mr Hopcroft said the support he and his wife have received from people in Weymouth following the Russian invasion of Ukraine has been 'marvellous'.

He said: "I've been running the barbers for 10 years and have amazing regular customers.

"The support we've received is marvellous.

"One example was from a senior citizen who comes in quite regularly. He gave me £20 to spend how I see fit, so I sent it to Yan to help his fight."

Mr Hopcroft spoke about how the war has affected his family.

"It truly breaks my heart - Kyiv, a city I've been many times, being destroyed," he said.

"The capital city has so much rich history with its old and classic architecture, Its historic routes are as great as London.

"My heart goes out to all in Ukraine, but it also goes out to those in Russia who do not want this war. They are the people who are not able to confront what their government is doing out of fear."