A SERVICE to mark one year since the illegal invasion of Ukraine by Russia will take place at Crediton Parish Church from 6pm on Saturday, February 25.

Crediton Curate, Rev Lewis Eden said it "would be an opportunity to pray for Ukraine, for an end to the war, for those affected by the war and to stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine".

He added that he hoped it would be "the first and hopefully only such anniversary service". 

Rev Eden continued: "During the service we shall be praying for the people of Ukraine, standing in solidarity with them.

"We ask God to bring an end to the war and to provide Ukrainians with a reassurance of God’s hope, asking for protection upon all those who are fighting for the safety and security of Ukraine.

"We will also give thanks to God for all those who have taken in refugees, for those who have stayed behind to fight and for all the good work that has happened in the midst of the conflict."

He added: "There will be an opportunity to respond to the words that shall be said and sung in the service, by lighting a candle and with a collection going to the Disaster Emergency Committee."