Church of England cathedrals and churches will hold prayer vigils and other events to mark the first anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine.

Since the war started on 24th February 2022, many dioceses have worked with charities to raise funds, as well as help facilitate accommodation for Ukrainian refugees.

Several churches have welcomed Ukrainian refugees into their congregations, with some church leaders hosting them in their homes - such as Bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich, Rt Rev Martin Seeley.

On Friday, many Ukrainian refugees, choirs and other community members will take part in church events offering prayer, reflection and music ahead of the nation’s moment of silence at 11 am.

Bradford Cathedral will host an hour-long service on Friday reflecting on the impact of the war and will include music from the city’s Ukrainian choirs.

The Bishop of Bradford, Toby Howarth, said: “Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine one year ago has caused misery not only for Ukrainians but has led to immense hardship for many others across the world.

“It is important that we mark this anniversary standing together as communities across Bradford in solidarity with all those who suffer from war and occupation.”

Liverpool Cathedral has joined forces with the Roman Catholic Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral to host a special vigil on Friday, starting on the plaza of the Metropolitan Cathedral before continuing later at Liverpool Cathedral.

Cathedrals will also be lit up in blue and yellow, the colours of the Ukrainian flag.