Staffordshire's historic Shire Hall will be showing solidarity with the people of Ukraine on Friday (24 February) by lighting up in blue and yellow.

The Ukrainian flag will also be flown from the building throughout the day, which marks a year since the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

This gesture shows support not only for the people of Ukraine, but for the 900 Ukrainians who have made Staffordshire their home since the start of the conflict.

600 of these remain in the county, with nearly 150 moving into private accommodation and around 100 returning to Ukraine.

The Homes for Ukraine scheme, which is being administered by Staffordshire County Council alongside district and borough councils, health, education and the voluntary sector, has seen nearly 500 Staffordshire residents give accommodation to families from the war-torn country. 

Victoria Wilson, Staffordshire County Council cabinet member for communities, said: "It's important that we stand together with those affected by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

"By raising the Ukrainian flag and lighting up the Shire Hall in blue and yellow, we are sending a clear message of support, especially to those Ukrainians who have chosen to make our county their home in the past year."

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