Norfolk marks one year anniversary of Ukraine war
Events are due to be held across the county to remember the victims of Russia's invasion
Events are being held across Norfolk today to mark exactly a year since Russia launched its full scale invasion of Ukraine.
It's thought around 30,000 Ukrainian civilians have been killed and as many as 100,000 Ukrainian soldiers have died or been injured since February 2022.
Around 1.300 have come to Norfolk and more than 1,000 have come to Suffolk since the start of the war, with many now working or going to school locally.
Churches across Norfolk will hold vigils and special services later to remember the victims of the war.
In Norwich, a prayer vigil will be held at Norwich Cathedral from 5pm.
Councillor Alan Waters, leader of Norwich City Council, said: “A year on from Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, the city continues to show our support to the people of Ukraine.
“Norwich has welcomed those fleeing the war and we remain committed to helping those in need. The city has hosted more than 200 people through the Homes for Ukraine scheme, with generous residents opening up their homes to help with support from the council.
“As we light up City Hall and raise the Ukrainian flag once more, we send a clear message of support, especially to those who have made our city their home.”
In King's Lynn the Ukrainian flag will be flown from the council building and both the Corn Exchange and Custom House will be lit up in blue and yellow.
At King's Lynn Minster a special service will be held from 6pm, led by the Revd Mark Dimond.
West Norfolk Council leader Stuart Dark MBE, said:
“From the beginning, when we opened our welcome centre within weeks of the start of the conflict, the council has done everything it can to make Ukrainian refugees feel safe and welcome here and we will continue this work for as long as it is needed.
“We have had fantastic support from our partners, including the Hanseatic Union, DWP, health colleagues and volunteers, and numerous members of our community have opened their homes.
“As a result, many of our new residents are working, volunteering and contributing generally to the community. Thank you west Norfolk.”