The council has reaffirmed its support for Ukraine.

Wychavon District Council has reconfirmed its commitment to helping those fleeing the war in Ukraine as we approach one year since the start of the conflict.

Since the Homes for Ukraine scheme was launched, three weeks after the start of Russia’s invasion, more than 200 people across the area have opened up their homes to more than 300 Ukrainians, providing them with a place to live and the support to begin building a new life in England.

Councillor Alex Sinton, chairman of the district council, has praised residents for their efforts.

He said: “Over the last year I’ve been moved by the compassion of our communities and the dedication of our staff to making sure our Ukrainian guests have the support they need to rebuild their lives.

“We all hope and pray that peace will soon be restored to Ukraine. But for as long as the war continues, we will continue to play our part - as I know our communities will - to support those affected by this terrible conflict.”

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Evesham Journal: 'We all hope and pray that peace will soon be restored to Ukraine' - Cllr Sinton'We all hope and pray that peace will soon be restored to Ukraine' - Cllr Sinton (Image: Wychavon District Council)

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Officers from the council have also played their part, carrying out hundreds of accommodation checks, distributing almost £270,000 of financial help from government funding and offering ongoing support and guidance to both hosts and Ukrainian guests.

Furthermore, members of the Ukrainian community have joined the Wychavon team as liaison officers and rematching officers, to make sure people have the support they need.

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Ahead of the anniversary, on February 24, the Ukrainian flag has been hoisted high above the Civic Centre in Pershore as a show of unity.

On the day itself, residents are encouraged to join in with a national one-minute silence.

Meanwhile, with the help of All Saints Church in Evesham, the town’s historic Bell Tower will be lit up blue and yellow, the colours of the Ukrainian flag.

Reverend Andrew Spurr, Vicar of Evesham and All Saints Church, said: “The courage, fortitude and tenacity of the Ukrainian people embodies some of the best qualities that humans are capable of.

“We must continue to keep this unnecessary war front and centre of our minds and our resolve.

“It is in everyone’s interests to have a world accountable to the rule of law; the Ukrainian cause is everyone’s cause.”