Ukrainians from across Bolton will be gathering in Victoria Square at the start of next month as the war between their homeland and Russia reaches its 500th day.

Communities will gather at the town hall steps on July 8, in a special show of unity that has been ongoing since the war to raise awareness of the plight in Ukraine.

Yaroslaw Tymchyshyn, Bolton Branch Chairman of the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britian, said Ukrainian guests and residents would ‘very much appreciate’ if people could join them ‘in an act of union and solidarity against the monster of Moscow’.

Speaking about the event, Yaroslaw said: “Saturday, July 8 will see the 500th Day since Russia extended their war against Ukraine.

“A war which was started in 2014.

“500 days in which we have seen war crimes of rape and murder, bombing of buildings holding children, hospitals and schools.

“The Ukrainian community of Bolton, which has been enlarged with displaced Ukrainians escaping the war, have gathered on the steps of the Town Hall virtually every Saturday to show solidarity with their brothers and sisters in Ukraine.

“On this particular Saturday, we would very much appreciate if you could join us in an act of union and solidarity against the monster of Moscow.

“Please come dressed in normal attire, there is no need for any ceremonial dress.

The Bolton News: People stood in solidarity with Ukraine at previous eventsPeople stood in solidarity with Ukraine at previous events (Image: NQ)

“We will be gathering at 12 noon and normally conclude at 1.00pm.

“This may be extended on the day dependent upon the mood of the people.

“The length of this shows the strength of the Ukrainian people and speaking yesterday to one of the officers at the Armed Forces Flag Day, he said it is easy to save people when they know what they are fighting for.

“And that has been the case the whole time.

“This event is going to showcase our 500 days of struggle, it is said that Russia has the second best army in the world but it actually has the second best army in Ukraine.”

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at chloe.wilson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @chloewjourno.