Havering marks anniversary of war in Ukraine

The sombre ceremony took place today (24 February 2023) at Havering Town Hall, where the Ukrainian flag was raised to full mast.

The ceremony upheld the national minute silence at 11am, in acknowledgement of the UK’s solidarity with Ukraine following the full-scale invasion by Russia and unwavering support for its people.

The Mayor of Havering shared a speech at the ceremony, which was followed by a prayer from The Reverend Father Hingley of St Albans Vicarage.

A traditional Ukrainian prayer was read by Mariana Nakonechna, who fled from her home in Ukraine last year, and now supports other Ukrainians living in the borough, as part of the Council’s resettlement team.

The Mayor of Havering laid a blue and yellow wreath in tribute to those who continue to protect Ukraine and in memory of those who have died.

The Mayor of Havering, Cllr Trevor McKeever, said:

“Today was an emotional ceremony as we reflect on the anniversary of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

“It is important for the borough to come together and show our support as we pay tribute to the Ukrainian community.

“I thank the sponsors who chose to rehome those who had to flee the war as part of the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme and have helped Ukrainians settle in the borough.

“We stand in solidarity with our Ukrainian community, on what is a very traumatic day for them and as they think of loved ones back home and those they have lost.”