Aldo’s Italian gives teenage Ukrainian refugee a job

Anton Vinokurenko, 16, only arrived in the country in May with his mum Valeria, and is now working at Aldo’s Italian on Harrogate Road in Greengates.

Apperley Bridge resident Peter Sturdy took the mother and son in at his four-bed detached house after they contacted one another through the Facebook group, UK Homes For Ukrainians.

"I had spare bedrooms and wanted to help," Peter said.

"Valeria works in the fitness industry and Anton cooks good burgers. I just said I need to get fit and I need a burger chef and it went from there," he chuckled. 

The lengthy process was completed while the pair were living with friends in Latvia.

Anton and Valeria, who sadly had to leave their family behind in the war-torn country, have now been in Bradford for just over six weeks.

Peter Sturdy (left) took both Anton and his mum Valeria (right) in

Peter added: "I think it has been really good. They are easy to get on with and we have had no problems so far.

"Obviously they would sooner be somewhere else. People forget that they have just uprooted and left everything.

"I am absolutely amazed by Anton and how he has supported his mum. They are both a credit to their country."

On his time in the country so far, Anton said: "It has been hard but with Pete and others' support it has made it much easier.

"I would still rather be at my home but this is the best country for Ukrainian refugees.

"I would say we have a very good location and good opportunities to work and study here."

Anton managed to gain a job at Aldo's thanks to the help of one of his new neighbours.

On Saturday, June 18, Linda Hill went for a meal at the restaurant and brought up the young man's story to owner Aldo DeVittoris.

Matthew Teal, Aldo’s Italian restaurant manager, and Aldo

Aldo said: "She mentioned that one of her neighbours had taken a Ukrainian family in.

"She said the boy was looking for work, so I suggested she brought him down to the restaurant for a trial.

"He has taken to it like a duck to water. He is front of house and has been amazing.

"He doesn't stop in the restaurant, he is so hard working.

"To say we are always busy too, he has handled that brilliantly. A great addition to the team."

Anton is very grateful for what both Peter and Aldo have done for him and his mum.

He added: "I like working at Aldo's. The staff are friendly and the food is very tasty.

"I would like to say thank you to everyone in England for helping all Ukrainians in these difficult times."