Warwick District Council is inviting residents to a candlelit vigil outside the town hall in Leamington Spa this Friday 24 February at 6pm, to mark the first anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Cllr Mini Kaur Mangat, WDC chair, will lead the vigil with members of the council as well as representatives from The Polish Centre, who have been instrumental in leading the local relief effort for Ukraine.

Cllr Mangat said: "The response from residents since the invasion began last year has been incredible.

"From fundraising efforts to housing Ukrainian refugees, the district has shown its determination to stand in solidarity with the victims of this senseless war.

"I would like to invite people to join us outside the town hall this Friday, to stand together in a peaceful and dignified way to express our collective message of hope and support to the people of Ukraine."

Dawid Kozlowski from The Polish Centre added: "Over the past year people of Warwick district have been very generous and supportive to the Aid for Ukraine appeal.

"It's an honour for us to send aid on everyone's behalf directly to Ukraine, and also support refugees who have come to Leamington and Warwick looking for a safe place to stay. This vigil will be a good way of showing the people in Ukraine 'you are not alone'."

The Polish Centre will be hosting refreshments after the vigil, with a chance to see the latest fleet of ambulances that will be sent to Ukraine to support their frontline efforts.