Tamworth #StandWithUkraine

Tamworth Castle lights up for Ukraine

25 July 2023

  • Tamworth is marking the Ukrainian Independence Day by flying the Ukraine flag from the council offices and castle.
  • Tamworth Castle to be lit up as the Ukraine flag colours
  • We #StandWithUkraine

Tamworth Borough Council is showing continued support for the people of Ukraine by flying the Ukraine flag from Tamworth Castle and Marmion House and lighting the castle in blue and yellow on the 23 August, which is Ukraine flag day and, 24 August, Ukraine Independence Day.

On Thursday 24 August, the people of Ukraine mark their Independence Day - exactly 18 months since Russia’s invasion, and 32 years since declaring independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.

30 Ukrainians have made Tamworth their home as part of the government’s Homes for Ukraine scheme and Tamworth continues to welcome those fleeing war.

The scheme has seen 18 Tamworth households hosting a Ukrainian guest or family, and six others have also offered a home. If anyone is interested in offering support, see the Staffordshire County Council website: Support for Ukraine - Staffordshire County Council

Since the invasion of Ukraine on February 24, millions of Ukranians have fled the country to seek safety, with more than 160,000 settling in the UK, according to the Local Government Association (LGA).

Councillor Daniel Maycock, Deputy Mayor, Wilnecote Ward Councillor and Trustee of Tamworth Humanitarian said: “We’re flying the Ukrainian flag and lighting up the castle to mark Ukrainian Independence Day to show our support and solidarity, remembering those still fighting and living in such desperate times.

“The war is still very much active, with recent strikes from the Russian forces being made on places of worship, such a historic Orthodox Cathedral in Odessa, missile strikes in Lviv and the disastrous sabotage of the Nova Kakhovka hydroelectric. The destruction of the dam not only caused acute flooding of regions in Kherson but only time will tell of the damage done to local eco-system. So, as the Ukrainians still stand strong against Russia, we should stand strong with them.”

“We thank local communities in Tamworth that support community groups which welcome people who have fled Ukraine and provide support for these families.”

Councillor Martin Summers, Cabinet member for Environmental Health and Community Partnerships, also said:

"Tamworth is always ready and willing to welcome those suffering at times of need, due to events beyond their control. I thank Daniel Maycock for his continued passionate representation and assistance of Ukrainian people."

Nationally the UK government has also been working closely with the Ukrainian Government on their plans to mark this Independence Day - at a time when they are fighting for their freedom.