Judge Rinder travelling to Ukrainian border to help Strictly dance partner’s family
Judge Rinder and Strictly Come Dancing partner Oksana Platero (Getty/Dave J Hogan)
Judge Robert Rinder has revealed he will be travelling to Poland’s Ukrainian border to help bring his Strictly partner Oksana Platero’s grandparents to safety.
The 43-year-old TV personality forged a strong friendship with Ukrainian dancer Platero during his time on Strictly Come Dancing in 2016.
Now the criminal barrister is hoping he will be able to help Platero’s plight to help her family flee the war-torn country in the wake of the Russian invasion.
The judge and broadcaster tweeted his travel plans on Wednesday (9 March) as he told fans: “Oksana Platero my Ukrainian dance partner on Strictly gifted me so much. Right now her grandparents are a week into their struggle to find sanctuary in a safe country.
Oksana Platero my Ukrainian dance partner on @bbcstrictly gifted me so much. Right now her grandparents are a week into their struggle to find sanctuary in a safe country.
I’ll be trying to meet them on the border next week.
They’re just a few of the millions who need us.@GMB pic.twitter.com/RqYtsB6rts
— Robert Rinder (@RobbieRinder) March 9, 2022
“I’ll be trying to meet them on the border next week. They’re just a few of the millions who need us.”
He continued: “Depends on where they make it to but I’ll be at the Polish border from Monday.
‘If they cross into Hungary the next step will be getting them to safety with their family.”
A GoFundMe page created for Platero and her cousin’s families has raised $10,000 (£7,594) and Judge Rinder’s tweets were met with an outpouring of support from UK citizens.
“Your picture should be in the dictionary next to the definition for friend,” one fan wrote. “I wish you a safe trip, I wish her grandparents safe passage. Our hearts will be with you.”
Rob Rinder on Strictly Come Dancing in 2016 (YouTube/BBC)
Another added: “That’s very kind of you Judge Rinder. Keep us posted.”
“My heart breaks for her and her family. I hope they get some help to keep them safe,” another follower commented.
One fan added: “What a wonderful person you are. Actions speak louder than mere words, good luck and stay safe – keep us posted when possible.”
Platero’s family join more than two million people who have fled their country during the ongoing crisis.
Poland has won praise from the likes of the United Nations and from Pope Francis over the last couple of weeks for welcoming Ukrainians who are fleeing war with open arms.
