Thousands celebrate Polish food and culture

Thousands of people have celebrated Polish food and culture during the annual Polish Heritage Day.

Organisers said the event had become a huge date in Gloucester's calendar since it began in 2017.

Speaking to BBC Radio Gloucestershire, Mr Silarski said the heritage day had always been about bringing people together.

He said: "We wanted to do something to show our culture, to introduce ourselves to British people, and show we weren't here to grab their jobs but give something back as well."

This year's festival included a headline band from Poland, as well as Polish food and drink.

Marcin Silarski, chairman of Polish Association Gloucester, said: "It's a great atmosphere, everything going as we want it, it's really good."

For Ola Bladyko, who has lived in Gloucester for 20 years, the day was a chance to revisit and celebrate her heritage.

She said: "It's so nice to feel at home.

"Ever since they started doing it in the park everything is just so beautiful, you feel like you're back in Poland."

Alicia Hainrych is originally from Poland while partner Mike Meredith was born and grew up in Cheltenham.

She said: "The sun is shining, the atmosphere is good, and everyone is very friendly."

Their daughter Maya, who Alicia said describes herself as "half and half", was also somewhere enjoying the day.

"She's off somewhere looking at the stalls, probably spending lots of money."

The day was hosted by Natasza Tyka from Gloucester who returned for another year, along with BBC Radio Gloucestershire's Breakfast Presenter, Jon Smith.

Ms Tyka said: "Every year it gets bigger and bigger.

"It's full of energy but it's also a really nice family day with lots of people bringing blankets, trying different food, enjoying the Polish music and culture."

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