Candles will be lit and loved ones remembered at a special service in Bridport marking the invasion of Ukraine by Russia.

The short special service will be held at the Chapel in the Garden, Bridport, on Friday, February 24 at 6pm and will be led by Reverend John Harley.

It will reflect upon the invasion of Ukraine by the Russians beginning on February 24, 2022, and there will be an opportunity to light candles of love for Ukraine and Ukrainians, with moments of silence, prayers, music, and reflections on the past year.

Ukrainian Valentina Osborne, who worked for Bridport Council supporting the refugees as they arrived in Bridport, and as a volunteer offering her translating skills to many meetings, said: "Many of the Ukrainian refugees will find comfort in this chance to gather together at the Chapel, to light candles and sit in silence, thinking of their loved ones and praying for our country."

Reverend John Harley said: "We want to give the people of Bridport, together with Ukrainian refugees, the chance to gather together to consider the past year, how we have managed the demands this conflict has made upon us all and to offer special support to the Ukrainians in our community.

“After the service, the congregation will be invited to gather in the Chapel café for drinks and refreshments.

“Everyone is welcome to the service, as they are to the weekly service at 11 am on Sunday, January 26 which will also reflect on the year since the invasion of Ukraine, with the theme of Living with Conflict.”

The next day on Saturday, February 25 the Chapel will be holding a fundraising concert to fund its community support, including the weekly Warm Rooms and the Community Fridge.

Musician Mitch Hiller will lead the concert, singing and playing songs and recounting stories from a life in music joined by Richard Smith on Harmonica, John Hinsley on percussion and his special guest, John Marshall.

The concert will start at 7.00pm with the bar opening at 6.00pm. Tickets at £10.00 from Bridport Tourist Information Centre, 01308 424901 or Linda on 07757 226747 and at the Chapel itself.