A BASINGSTOKE massage therapist who changed careers after fleeing the war in Ukraine said he is “thrilled” to have received an award for his work.

Sergii Korniichuk spent 20 years performing as a professional ballet and folk dancer to audiences of 3,000 and on cruise ships.

It was through this successful career that he realised the importance of taking care of your body and discovered massage therapy.

Sergii completed massage training in Kyiv, Ukraine before moving to the UK following the Russian attack on his home country.

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(Image: Sergii Korniichuk) The 31-year-old said: “There were missiles flying and I was scared of helicopters. I was lucky to escape because a lot of men struggled.”

Sergii continued his massage therapy studies at the London School of Massage before launching his own sports massage business in Basingstoke. 

He has now been declared The Best Massage Therapist in Basingstoke and Deane by The Quality Business Awards.

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Sergii, who lives in Basingstoke, said: “I am passionate about helping my clients and making a difference from the first session.

"After more than 20 years performing as a professional dancer and playing sport at a high level, I have experienced many injuries and recovery periods. From my experience, I understand the importance of taking care of your body and how necessary professional massage and correct rehabilitation is.

“I have been through many doctors and rehabilitation therapists and know it is vital to find a specialist that understands what you need to recover.”