Cheshire West and Chester Council turned off lights on December 21 in support of Ukraine

Lights illuminating Chester landmarks were switched off at 8pm on 21st December to show solidarity with Ukraine.

The landmarks, including Chester Town Hall, Eastgate Clock and Newgate Bridge, joined famous sites across the world in having their lights turned off on the darkest day in Ukraine as part of the international #LightUpUkraine campaign.

The campaign’s aim is to show solidarity with people in Ukraine who are facing blackouts this winter due to the ongoing conflict in the country.

Other landmarks going dark included Wembley Stadium’s Arch, the Royal Albert Hall and City Hall in London, the Colosseum in Rome, Sydney Opera House, Toronto’s CN Tower and Budapest’s Liberty Bridge.

Louise Gittins, Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: “We are proud to show our support for the people of Ukraine who are going through unimaginable hardship in their homeland.

“As a borough, we have welcomed more than 550 Ukrainian refugees since the conflict began, with more than 200 Cheshire West and Chester families opening up their homes as sponsors to help people fleeing the conflict.

“The response from our communities has been outstanding, with residents donating money and items this year, as well as providing a safe place to stay.

“The Council has been helping Ukrainian guests and their sponsors, making sure everyone has the support they need so that guests can start to rebuild their lives.

“We have seen our communities come together in solidarity in two Ukrainian events this year in Chester and Northwich, and a wonderful carol concert at Chester Cathedral earlier this month.

“We are proud to be a borough of sanctuary and, as a Council, remain committed to supporting people fleeing the war.”

For more information about the Council’s response to the Ukraine conflict visit: 

www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/ukraine.