A CLUB in Bradford has been involved in a UK first by serving a very unique drink at its beer festival.
Members of the Bradford Ukrainian Club, on Legrams Lane, are currently in the process of celebrating its 10th PyvoFest.
Read more: Effigy of Russian President Vladimir Putin burned in Bradford
The Ukrainian Beer Festival returns after a two-year enforced break due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
On draught, this year is The Putin Huilo beer.
The name of the Ukrainian golden ale translates to "Putin is a d******d".
It was originally brewed when Putin first began his war with Ukraine in 2014.
Chairman of the club Ewhen Chymera said: "Some of the beer names have taken political meaning this year, some trivial and this one (The Putin Huilo beer) is probably the most sinkable of them all on the list."
The two main festival nights, Friday and Saturday, will be supported by a host of entertainment with live music provided by local bands, Ukrainian acts and dance troupes.
With millions of Ukrainians preparing themselves for an uncertain and challenging winter, the festival will raise funds to support humanitarian causes in the country.
The funds will also help the club continue their support to the many refugees that have come to Bradford since the start of the war.
Over 250 Ukrainians have temporarily made Bradford their home, with over 1,500 in the wider West Yorkshire area.
Mr Chymera added: "Our annual Ukrainian beer festival is a celebration of, not just our beer, but our country's heritage, culture and cuisine.
"This year is extremely poignant. Given what has happened over the last eight months in Ukraine, we will be doing a lot of fundraising in support of humanitarian causes and refugees in Bradford. It is going to be great to see them come along."
On Thursday, the club hosted a Brew for Ukraine Q&A.
Ukrainian beer bloggers, local breweries and renowned Ukrainian chef Olia Hercules were all in attendance as the first pouring of The Putin Huilo beer took place.
The festival features a record number of Ukrainian beers as well as an array of beers brewed in the UK.
This year's PyvoFest logo has been designed by a Ukrainian lady who has arrived in Bradford.
The logo depicts a soldier's helmet protecting a beer tankard - which represents soldiers protecting Ukrainian civilians, democracy and indeed its very existence.
The sunflowers appearing from behind the glass show the everlasting Ukrainian spirit.
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