Ukraine man joins Great Yarmouth's one-minute silence

So said Ukrainian Vlad Koval as he joined a ceremony at Great Yarmouth Town Hall, marking the first anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine today (February 24).

Originally from the north eastern city of Kharkiv, Mr Koval and his family were in the city while invading Russian forces began their assault on the country. Following the invasion, more than 1,000 Ukrainians lost their lives in Kharkiv between February and May last year.

A burnt out car in front of Kharkiv City Hall.

Managing to escape the city in the summer, Mr Koval, his wife and their daughter have been living with a host family in Filby. The Koval family are three of the 114,400 Ukrainians finding refuge in the UK under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme.

Mr Koval said: "I know every Ukrainian appreciates the support from the people of the UK. Just like we have seen today.

"The support from the UK people and its government means a lot."

Vlad Koval (left) with his host family, Graham and Jude Richardson. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)

Since September, Mr Koval, his wife Julia and their daughter Roma have been hosted by Jude and Graham Richardson.

"It felt very important to us and our neighbours to show our support somehow," Mrs Richardson said.

"We have learned a lot from Vlad, Julia and Roma and they have become an integral part of our community."

The Ukrainian flag will remain flying beside the Union flag outside Great Yarmouth Town Hall for the next week. Picture - James Weeds (Image: James Weeds)

At the town hall ceremony, the Ukrainian flag was raised beside the Union flag before the mayor Graham Plant led a one-minute silence at 11am.

Mr Plant said: "One year on from Putin’s invasion, we stand in solidarity with our friends in Ukraine and remember all those who have lost their lives in the pursuit of freedom.

"This moment of silence was a time to reflect on the human cost of this conflict and show that we continue to stand with Ukraine."

Great Yarmouth Borough mayor Graham Plant (centre) joined council members in raising the Ukrainian flag on Friday in a sign of solidarity. Picture - GYBC (Image: GYBC)