Ukrainian families and their hosts in Watford will join people across the town and UK to observe the anniversary of the conflict in Ukraine on Friday 24 February.
- 11:00am – National minute of silence to honour all those affected by the ongoing war.
- 11:01am – Raising of the Ukrainian Flag at the Town Hall with Deputy Mayor Aga Dychton and Luther Blissett OBE DL.
- 1pm – 6pm – Watford Central Library will be a hosting ‘Ukraine in my heart’, an exhibition giving visitors the opportunity to appreciate art, learn about Ukrainian culture through crafts and food, whilst also connecting with the community. It will be showcasing artwork from children who are still in Ukraine and will offer the unique opportunity to meet and talk to Ukrainian families.
- 6:15pm – ‘Service of unity’ held at Peace Memorial remembering loved ones in Ukraine with a candlelit vigil, readings and the national anthem of Ukraine. There will then be a candlelit procession to St Mary’s Church.
- 6:45pm – ‘Ukraine in our hearts’ service at St Mary’s Church led by Reverend Tony Rindl, attended by Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, and will feature music and songs by acclaimed Ukrainian artists.
Since the war began, thousands of Ukrainians have been killed defending their freedom from Russia’s appalling onslaught. Millions more have been forced from their homes, with 114,400 Ukrainians finding refuge in the UK under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “This national moment of reflection will offer the UK public the chance to pay tribute to the courage of the Ukrainian people and demonstrate the UK’s unwavering solidarity with the country.
“This is not just a war in which innocent people are being killed and injured, it’s also an attack on democratic values. As public officials and members of the local community, we stand with Mayors, councillors and every person elected to office in Ukraine that is unable to fulfil their democratic duties.
“I am grateful for the response of so many people in Watford, who continue to make donations and contributions to help those in need in Ukraine, especially to Goods for Good, Watford & Three Rivers Trust and Luther Blissett. They have helped welcome arrivals from Ukraine to our town and with vital goods that have been sent to Ukraine.”
People are invited to join the ceremony and reflect on the past year and show their support for the Ukrainian community. Information on how to support the crisis and make a donation can be found by clicking the link below:
