Bolton to mark one year since the Russian invasion of Ukraine

Bolton Council along with the Ukrainian community is staging a short service next week to which local people are invited to attend and remember those caught up in the wartorn conflict.

The event will take place in Victoria Square on Friday, February 24 and will be hosted by the leader of the council, Cllr Martyn Cox, and the Deputy Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Linda Thomas.

They will be joined by Vicar of Bolton Reverend Canon Dr Chris Bracegirdle, the Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester Mrs Diane Hawkins, and members of the Bolton Branch of the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain.

The Vicar of Bolton will lead a short service from 10.55am followed by the lighting of a candle by the Deputy Mayor.

The Lord Lieutenant will then lead the laying of floral tributes.

Prayers and a minute’s silence will be held for the victims of the Russian invasion.

The ceremony is expected to last for approximately 30 to 35 minutes.

Ukrainian community gather in the town centre in solidarity to Ukraine (Image: Bolton Ukrainian Cultural Centre)

The Deputy Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Linda Thomas, said: “I have been so proud of the commitment of local residents to supporting those fleeing the conflict in Ukraine and seeking refuge in Bolton.

“As we approach the anniversary of the invasion, this is another opportunity for us to come together to demonstrate solidarity with the people of Ukraine.”

Yaroslaw Tymchyshyn, Chair of the Bolton Branch of the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain, said: “The Bolton Branch of AUGB, together with Bolton Council, will remember the fallen who have given their lives in the defence of Ukraine.

"While my thoughts and prayers are with the people back home, this event is an opportunity for our community to come together and show our support for Ukraine.

“During such difficult times, it’s important that we stand shoulder to shoulder with one another and show that we are united against the invasion of Ukraine.”

Bolton Town Hall will also be illuminated with blue and yellow lights and the Ukrainian flag will fly from the building’s south-east flagpole during the service and until the end of the day.

Anyone wishing to take part in the event is invited to attend in Victoria Square from 10.45am on Friday 24 February 2023.

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