RESIDENTS came together to remember those who have lost their lives during the conflict in Ukraine, one year since the war began.

People gathered for a vigil in Abbey Gardens on Friday, February 24, with lit candles, signs and Ukrainian flags.

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The well-attended event, organised by the City of Sanctuary, lasted around 25 minutes and saw speeches and prayer readings read in both English and Ukrainian.

Then a sombre atmosphere filled the air as people stood in silence to reflect on the horrors of war.

This came before a joined performance of 'Ukraine is not yet lost', the country's national anthem.

WATCH LIVE: Vigil in Abbey Gardens marking one year since the war in Ukraine

Vigil in Abbey Gardens marking one year since the war in Ukraine

Posted by Hampshire Chronicle on Friday, 24 February 2023

A Winchester City of Sanctuary spokesperson said: "We held a vigil with partners and friends yesterday in Winchester, at Abbey Gardens, to mark a year since the invasion of Ukraine and to reflect and remember those who have lost their lives.

"Winchester and the wider community have opened their hearts and homes to Ukrainians and shown that Winchester is a place of sanctuary for all. We are grateful to hosts and the wider community who have welcomed and supported people seeking sanctuary and who continue to do so.

"We stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and with anyone seeking sanctuary and ask others to do the same."