Over one thousand Ukrainian refugees who have been living on a ship in Edinburgh have finally been rehomed. MS Victoria has been docked in Leith Harbour for a year to accommodate the Ukrainians who fled their home country after it was invaded by Russia.
Yesterday, exactly a year on from its arrival, the cruise ship left the docks and sounded its horn to say goodbye. The ship is now heading to Port of Tyne in South Shields, reports Edinburgh Live.
Edinburgh locals took to social media noting how the families on the ship became part of the community.
SOS Leith said: "Farewell to Leith, exactly a year on to the day, for passenger ferry Victoria I, now bound for the Port of Tyne. Warm wishes to all who lived and worked on her during her time with us."
Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said: "Since the start of the illegal war against Ukraine, almost 25,000 people with a Scottish sponsor have arrived in the UK, more than 20,000 of them through the Scottish Government's super sponsor scheme.
"The MS Victoria was secured to provide an immediate place of safety to displaced people and was always intended to be a temporary measure. Ahead of the contract ending on July 11, the ship has now been fully and safely disembarked, with all guests supported into onward accommodation.
"I would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone involved in supporting the displaced people from Ukraine resident on the ship, as well as those who have helped them move into alternative accommodation."
Back in July 2022, the Scottish Government paused its super-sponsor scheme due to significant demand. More than 20,000 Ukrainians travelled to Scotland through the scheme.
The Scottish Government's contract with Forth Ports has now ended, which meant that the refugees needed to find alternative housing.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.
READ NEXT:
Inside brutal gang war that led to Elle Edwards' murder and year of violence
BBC presenter 'called teen demanding their mum stopped probe into explicit images'
Nicky Campbell fears ex-teacher who 'sadistically beat boys' won't face justice due to age
Woman found out boyfriend was a paedophile days after she gave birth to his daughter
