Sir Lewis Hamilton sends gifts to young Ukrainian refugee who dreams of becoming an F1 driver

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Racing driver Sir Lewis Hamilton sent a signed cap, replica helmet and a note from his Mercedes F1 teammates to eight-year-old Roman, who braved missile attacks in Ukraine before fleeing to Poland

Eight-year-old Ukrainian Roman Burko with some of his gifts from F1 hero Sir Lewis Hamilton (

Image: ©Stan Kujawa)

A Ukrainian refugee who dreams of becoming a racing driver is thrilled - after receiving gifts from his hero Sir Lewis Hamilton.

The Sunday Mirror reported five months ago how Roman Burko showed remarkable courage as missiles rained down near his home. The brave eight-year-old melted hearts when he told us he wanted to be a Formula 1 ace like Lewis.

Last week we caught up with Roman at his new home in Poland and presented him with a package from seven-time champion Lewis, 37.

It included an autographed cap, F1 Monopoly, a model of his helmet and a note from his Mercedes team hailing him as an "amazing fan". A beaming Roman thanked Lewis, while mum Ivanna joked that her son would be the "coolest in his class".

The family moved to Poland and Roman was welcomed to his new school with gifts from his classmates. He learned the language and is happy to live somewhere without anti-aircraft sirens, said mom Ivanna.

Roman Burko with his mother Ivanna and Mirror reporter Amy Sharpe in Poland (

Picture:

©Stan Kujawa)

Roman said, "It's nice here. My favorite thing is the municipal swimming pool because of the slides."

The proud Ivanna, 29, added: "Roman likes this place, but he always reminds me that we will be going home soon. When she arrives, it will be a day to remember.

"Roman is confident and courageous. He was quiet at first in school, but made friends and joined in everything.