Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Fears for Dundee man in Ukraine
THE brother of a former chiropractor from Dundee says he is “concerned” but proud after h is sibling joined a Ukrainian marine unit.
Mark Cashley, who recently moved to France, made the journey to Kyiv via Poland about a fortnight ago, driving ambulances between Kyiv, Lviv and Odesa.
But his brother Ade says Mark decided to join the military effort after witnessing the horrors of war.
“He saw so much harm being done to children that he finally decided the best thing to do was pick up arms and support the mission to get rid of the Russians,” Ade said.
Mark, 59, told his family he had joined the Ukrainian military earlier this week – but contact has since been limited.
In previous weeks he has shared insights about his time in Ukraine on social media.
Ade says Mark’s loved ones are concerned for his welfare but appreciate why he has taken the decision.
“We’re extremely proud.
“Mark couldn’t stand by and watch the horrors unfold on television while feeling like he could do something.”
Mark established a chiropractic service in Forfar before expanding into Dundee.
He also formerly co-owned the Newport Hotel.
Ade and Mark lost their brother, SNP activist Calum Cashley, last year, and Ade says his six surviving siblings do not want to lose Mark as well.
However, Mark’s decision to head to the frontline did not surprise his family.
Ade said: “One thing that drove Mark was that he saw the British government carry-on with the visa requirements.
“I think that was the last straw that made him go out there.
“Mark has always done a lot of good.
“He didn’t have any children of his own but has spent a lot of time over the years helping children.
“It’s not a surprise he’s done this – it doesn’t surprise me in the slightest. It’s the sort of guy he is, and it’s how we were brought up.”
Official advice from the Foreign Office is that UK citizens should not travel for any purpose, including to fight in Ukraine.
UK armed forces leaders have also banned all serving personnel from travelling to the country, with soldiers told they could face a court martial if they go to Ukraine to fight.
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