Cheshire West vigils will mark anniversary of war in Ukraine

Following a religious service at The Wesley Centre in St John Street at 2pm, a procession will head to Chester's Town Hall Square where members of Chester Male Voice Choir will perform at the Vigil which commences at 3.30pm. The event will include the lighting of candles and a moment of silence and reflection.

Speeches will be made by local civic and religious leaders including The Lord Mayor of Chester, Cllr John Leather, The Bishop of Chester The Rt Rev. Mark Tanner and newly elected MP for the City of Chester, Samantha Dixon MBE. Prayers will be led by The Dean of Chester, Dr Tim Stratford.

Chester Male Voice Choir (Image: Paul Crofts)

During the event, members of the Ukrainian community who have been welcomed to the city since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine will share their experiences and there will be poems and songs performed by Ukrainian children. Members of the public are invited to attend the event to show their solidarity with the people of Ukraine.

A spokesman for Chester Male Voice Choir said: "We are honoured to have been invited to sing at the Vigil which marks the one-year anniversary of the war in Ukraine. We have chosen to perform songs which recognise the sacrifices which have been made since the war began, the hope of peace to come and support for the Ukrainian people. We hope that as many people as possible will attend the vigil to mark the anniversary and to show their support for the people of Ukraine."

The Mayor of Ellesmere Port, Councillor Denson, will be appearing at the town's vigil which also takes place tonight at the later time of 4.30pm outside the Civic Hall. It is open to all members of the public.