Residents, volunteers and organisations across the county are being thanked for their part in aiding the people of Ukraine, as Lancashire welcomes its 1,000th arrival.

Over the past six months, hundreds of individuals and families fleeing Ukraine following the invasion of Russia have begun a new life in Lancashire via the Homes for Ukraine scheme.

The scheme is being led by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, with Lancashire Refugee Integration Team and Lancashire Resilience Forum coordinating the Lancashire-wide response, which also includes accessing healthcare, welfare and schools.

As of August 12, 541 sponsors in Lancashire have been matched with 1,342 people via the scheme. So far, 1,002 people have arrived in Lancashire.

It comes as the people of Ukraine prepare to celebrate Independence Day of Ukraine on August 24 – six months to the day after Russia's invasion, with County Hall set to be lit up in yellow and blue in a further show of solidarity.

Leader of the county council, Cllr Phillippa Williamson said: "From the very outset of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Lancashire has stood firm in its support with our European neighbours.

"Six months on and the message is the same – Lancashire stands ready, willing, and able to play our part in the UK’s response to the horrors taking place in Ukraine.

"Through the kindness of our residents, the UK Government has been able to find homes in our county for more than a thousand individuals who desperately need one.

"For this, on behalf of everyone at the county council, thank you.

"I would also like to thank the many organisations and volunteers who have been working round the clock to make sure our new guests settle into their new lives in Lancashire."