THE Ukrainian flag will fly over Dorchester on Saturday (February 24) to mark two years since the Russian invasion began.

The flag will be raised at County Hall to mark two years since Vladimir Putin’s forces began the war, forcing thousands to flee the country.

More than 1,000 Ukrainians have since settled in Dorset, said Councillor Laura Beddow, portfolio holder for culture, communities and customer services.

“As we mark the second anniversary of this conflict, we continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Ukraine and reaffirm our commitment to those fleeing the conflict in their homeland, as we do every day,” she said.

“Dorset has a proud history of welcoming new arrivals at times of crisis, offering homes and support to people escaping the horrors of war.

“The Homes for Ukraine scheme, which is being administered by Dorset Council alongside other organisations, continues to see local residents giving accommodation to families from the war-torn country and we want to add our sincere thanks and tribute to communities who have opened their hearts and homes.

“We also want to thank local voluntary and community organisations we work with to ensure refugees arriving from Ukraine are welcomed and receive the support they need.”

Cllr Val Pothecary, chair of Dorset Council, added: “Saturday will mark two years since the war against Ukraine began. We will raise the Ukrainian flag to send a clear message of support, especially to those Ukrainians who have chosen to make our county their home in the past year.”

As the war continues, Ukrainians still need a place of safety and the council is looking for more hosts and landlords in Dorset to help refugees already in the area who need to move on from their initial sponsorship arrangement.

Anyone who can continue hosting but needs further support, or anyone interested in hosting and would like to find out more, can email ukraineresponse@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.

The Dorset Together Ukraine network includes Dorset Council, NHS, Public Health Dorset, Department of Work and Pensions (DWP), the emergency services, faith groups, Skills and Learning Dorset, Volunteer Centre Dorset, Dorset Race Equality Council, Help and Kindness, Citizens Advice and other local groups.