Bridport will mark the first anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine with a special service on Friday, February 24.

The service for Ukraine will be held at the Chapel in the Garden, off East Street, from 6pm, led by the Reverend John Harley.

The Reverend Harley said: "We want to give the people of Bridport, together with Ukrainian refugees, the chance to gather together to consider the past year, how we have managed the demands this conflict has made upon us all and to offer special support to the Ukrainians in our community." 

 There will an opportunity to light candles of love for Ukraine and Ukrainians, with moments of silence, prayers, music and reflections on the past year.

Ukrainian Valentina Osborne, who has offered support to the refugees here in Bridport, said: "Many of the Ukrainian refugees will find comfort in this chance to gather together at the chapel, to light candles and sit in silence, thinking of their loved ones and praying for our country." 

On Saturday, February 25, the chapel will be holding a fundraising concert.

These concerts give the chapel the funds needed to continue to offer emotional and practical support to the community – from the weekly Warm Rooms to the Community Fridge, where food and warm clothes are given out without question.

Versatile musician Mitch Hiller will lead the concert, singing and playing songs and recounting stories from a life in music.

Mitch will be supported in this fundraiser by Richard Smith on harmonica, John Hinsley on percussion and his special guest, John Marshall, on vocals and guitar.

The concert will start at 7pm with the bar opening at 6pm. Tickets cost £10 and are available from Bridport Tourist Information Centre on 01308 424901, or from Linda on 07757 226 747 and at the chapel itself.

Margie Barbour

01308 421124

07759 382 103