A performance of Ukrainian folk music by teenage twin sisters Solomiia and Sofiia Petrovska was the highlight of Ribble Valley Council celebrations to mark Ukraine Independence Day.

The borough is currently hosting 50 Ukrainians as part of the Homes for Ukraine scheme, which is one of the highest rates in Lancashire.

Mark Hindle, Ribble Valley's Mayor, welcomed attendees to a special event in the Civic Suite in Clitheroe before reiterating the support and goodwill of the borough via a translator.

He said: “Today provides us with an opportunity to celebrate Ukrainian independence and show you that what is happening in your homeland is not forgotten.

"Please be assured that you share the overwhelming support and goodwill of the British Government, the people of the United Kingdom and the people of the Ribble Valley.”

Mark signed off his welcome with the traditional Ukrainian salute ‘slava ukraini’, which translates as ‘Glory to Ukraine!’

The guests then enjoyed a special performance of Ukrainian folk songs by 14-year-old twins Solomiia and Sofia, who accompanied themselves on the bandura, a traditional Ukrainian stringed instrument.

The children at the event were gifted sweet cones in the blue and yellow colours of the Ukraine flag, after which there was a buffet lunch.

Ribble Valley has flung open its doors to Ukrainians feeling the brutal invasion of their country by Vladimir Putin’s Russia.

A special liaison officer has been appointed by the council.

Several community groups and churches continue to offer support to the country's refugee community, most notably via the Clitheroe Ukraine Support Project (CUSP), which provides practical and emotional support to the Ukrainian guests and those families hosting them.