City to mark anniversary of invasion of Ukraine

A city that has sheltered hundreds of Ukranian refugees is holding a ceremony to mark the third anniversary of the Russian invasion.

Monday's event in Colchester will honour those affected by the conflict and will include Ukrainian songs, guest speakers and a silence.

Since Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022, people in Essex have welcomed over 3,000 refugees. It is thought about 320 came to Colchester.

"[This is] a great opportunity to show how Colchester values those who need help and those who help others," said David King, the Liberal Democrat leader of Colchester City Council.

Lauren Kilbey and her husband invited Ukrainian refugee Olaina and her daughter to stay with them in May 2022.

They had fled Kyiv during the first weeks of the invasion, making their way to Poland before flying to the UK.

"I've got four daughters of my own, so I'm used to being part of a family," Mrs Kilbey said.

"If I was in the same position, I like to think other people would do the same thing for me," she added.

Olaina and her daughter have been living with the Kilbeys for almost three years, and Mrs Kilbey now considers herself an "honorary Ukrainian".

Of the many Essex hosts, Natalie Sommers, a Liberal Democrat city councillor, said: "Beyond providing a home, they've been providing emotional support, helping their guests find private sector housing, helping them with transport, helping them with educational needs."

Many councils, churches, community groups and businesses across Essex supported Ukrainians, offering free language courses, support groups and professional development schemes.

A street in Harlow was even renamed in honour of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Monday's ceremony is at Colchester Town Hall between 12:00 and 14:00 GMT.