Ukraine crisis: Vigil held outside Newbury town hall in solidarity with Ukraine as Russian invasion continues

Hundreds of people stood in silent solidarity with the people of Ukraine on Friday night.

Parents, children, young and old, all stood together, flags held aloft and candles raised against the dark night sky above Newbury's Market Place.

The Ukrainian flag was flying above the town hall as a crowd around 500 strong gathered below to show their support for the country following its invasion by Russia.

"I think it's important to show the world that we are against this war," said Stefan, who lives in Newbury with his son and partner Milena. "I am from Poland and we are terrified it could spread all over Europe.

"Mass media is so powerful it can change things. I do have hope."

People were clutching sunflowers, holding up messages; even a dog named Harry had the Ukrainian flag tied around his neck.

Newbury mayor Billy Drummond gave the opening address from the steps of the town hall at 6.30pm, before organiser Jana Little spoke.

Rev Gary Collins, from St John's Church, then read a poem.

Afterwards Jana, who is from the Czech Republic, told us of the horrors she is hearing from friends trying to escape Ukraine.

"I was petrified," she said. "I couldn't just sit, so I said what can we do. Today I spoke to someone in Ukraine and she said everyone is scared to go out so if they run out of food they would rather go hungry."

Newbury resident Trish said: "It's just horrific. Those poor people just living in fear all the time. It's beyond belief that it is happening in the 21st century."

Danielle, also from Newbury, said she had recently joined a demonstration in London said it was nice to see something happening in her home town.

The town hall and Newbury's Corn Exchange were also lit up in the yellow and blue of the Ukrainian flag this evening.

For more pictures and details of tonight's vigil keep an eye on newburytoday next week and next Thursday's Newbury Weekly News.