Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine there was a lot of grassroots support for the situation and the refugees by people in the Highlands. A number of collections were organised and people gathered in Inverness city centre to hold a vigil of solidarity. I attended the second event and this was the resulting report and pictures. Scary to think that we are now two months from the start of the war and the situation has not improved – in fact, if I am being honest, it has got a lot worse.

RESIDENTS in Inverness turned out for a vigil held in support for the people of Ukraine.

It was the second such event to be held in Falcon Square since the eastern European country was invaded by Russia.

Anne Thomas, one of the organisers, said there had been a good response which she hoped would continue.

She added: “It’s really desperate that we are having to do it again. The situation is getting worse.”

Inverness and Nairn MP Drew Hendry said: “I think it is really important for people to show their support.”

Petro Wychrij, who lives in Ardross and whose father was originally from Ukraine, also spoke to the crowd.

He said: “It’s great that people are coming down and showing support.”

From The Inverness Courier on  Tuesday, March 8, 2022.