DAWLISH and Newton Abbot marked the second anniversary of the war in Ukraine with special events in the town. 

In Dawlish, the Ukrainian flag was raised at the Piazza to commemorate two years since hostilities began. 

Many Ukrainians have settled in Dawlish since the rehoming programme started. 

Mayor of Dawlish Rosie Dawson was accompanied by her escort Inna Yevko, who came to live Dawlish from Ukraine. 

Readings and prayers were said in English and Ukrainian at the ceremony. 

Cllr Dawson told the gathering: ‘We gather to mark two years since the war began in your beautiful country.

‘We raise the flag for those who have suffered, those who have fought and are fighting, those who are frightened and all Ukrainian people who show such bravery.

‘We also raise the flag for hope and hope that a time of peace and safety will come.’

In Newton Abbot, the gathering took place at St Leonard’s Clock Tower where Mayor David Corney-Walker led a minute’s silence, followed by the raising of the Ukrainian flag. 

Rev. Dave Brown also led a prayer to commemorate those whose lives have been lost or affected by the war. 

The Ukrainian community in Newton Abbot gathered at the Courtenay Centre afterwards to reflect and the Rotary Club of Newton Abbot supported the event, which was organised by Newton Abbot Town Council and Newton Abbot CIC, by providing refreshments.

Collections for supplies to be sent to front line soldiers, including items such as hand warmers and medical supplies are still available for anyone wanting to contribute in Newton Abbot. 

There is a drop off point at the Courtenay Centre and a list of supplies needed is available by contacting [email protected]