Around 100 people gathered in Carlisle Cathedral to mark the fourth anniversary of the full-scale war in Ukraine, writes Chris Jones.
The event yesterday, Sunday February 22, featured a special vigil and march through the city.
It began with a moving service at the cathedral, where prayers were said for peace, for those who have lost their lives, and for families separated by the conflict.
Many Ukrainians now living in Carlisle and across Cumbria stood side by side with the congregation in a show of unity and support.
Following the service, participants marched from the cathedral into Carlisle city centre, holding blue and yellow flags and placards highlighting the ongoing plight of the Ukrainian people.
Messages called for continued international support and remembered those still living under daily threat in Ukraine.
A vigil in the city centre was led by Ukrainian-born Alla Stoica, who addressed the crowd before inviting everyone to join in singing the National Anthem of Ukraine.
Alla said: “Ukrainians living in Cumbria deeply appreciate the ongoing support from the local community.
“Your kindness, generosity and solidarity mean more than words can say.”
During the event, a sale showcased beautiful items made by members of the local Ukrainian community.
These included paintings and prints by a Ukrainian artist, books by Ukrainian authors in English, handmade bookmarks, knitted toys and delicious homemade cakes.
Nearly £1,000 was raised for Cumbria Aid Ukraine, a local organisation that has supported Ukraine since the earliest days of the war.
The group has raised significant funds and sent evacuation vehicles, ambulances, medical equipment and other vital humanitarian aid directly to Ukraine.
At 7pm, a silent vigil took place at Carlisle Cross, organised by Paul Thompson.
Candles were lit in quiet reflection, and thoughts turned to those still living through the conflict. Since the full-scale invasion began, many thousands of lives have been lost amid the incessant bombardment of towns and cities.
Yet Ukraine has remained resistant and resilient. Cumbria has welcomed displaced Ukrainian refugees, many of whom continue to wait with heartfelt hope of one day being peacefully reunited with their families and friends in their homeland.
