The people of Alnwick will unite in horror over the invasion of Ukraine in a town procession this weekend.
On Sunday, the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland will be among those leading a walk of "solidarity" with the under-attack country that will culminate in the raising of the Ukrainian flag.
Hundreds of civilians have been killed and millions more have been forced to flee their homes as Russian forces continue their widely-condemned attack on their neighbouring country.
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On Sunday Ralph Percy, Duke of Northumberland, will join Alnwick Mayor Lynda Wearn and the leader of Northumberland County Council, Glen Sanderson, at the front of a procession setting off from the town's market place at 1.30pm in a bid to demonstrate their support for those resisting the invasion.
They will walk to the flagpole in the column field and at 2pm The Duke of Northumberland will say a few words followed by a short service and the raising of the Ukraine flag.
The Duke said: “No one can see the televised descriptions of human tragedy in Ukraine without feeling profound sympathy, sadness and respect for an unbelievably brave nation of people trying to steer their own destiny - in contrast to the inhumanity of Russia’s violent and autocratic leadership.
"My family fully support this procession to back Ukraine in its desperate struggle”.
Coun Wearn added: “The response to the opening of a collection point at the Northumberland Hall, where the public can leave donations for Ukrainian refugees, has been astounding.
"People have great empathy with the people of Ukraine but are frustrated that there is not a lot they can do apart from leaving donations of goods or giving financial donations through the Red Cross or other charitable organisations.
“Sunday’s procession is an opportunity to demonstrate solidarity with the people of a country that is suffering under the most awful of circumstances.
"All of us at Alnwick Town Council have been humbled by the generosity of people who have given us donations. I know the people of Alnwick care and Sunday’s event will reflect this.”
Alnwick Castle will also be flying the Ukrainian flag on Sunday.
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