DURSLEY has received a message of thanks from the Ukraine.

Residents held a peace vigil for the country after Russian forces launched a large-scale military attack.

Organised by the Churches Together group, the vigil took place under the Market House on Thursday, February 24.

News of the small gathering reached Ukrainian journalist Serhii Guz, who has friends in Dursley, prompting him to send a message of appreciation.

He said: "Thank you very much, this is very important now!

"Give all these people a big thank you from all of us for this support!"

Referring to a picture of the gathering, included here, which shows people standing under the Market House holding candles in solidarity with the Ukrainians, he said: "This picture, this sincere gathering of people in faraway Dursley, is a testament to the fact that we are not alone, that the world sees all the injustice of Putin's aggression."

He added: "My daughter, Masha, and I were in Dursley in 2012.

"It was raining, the weather was not very good, but we walked along its streets and saw how even in such weather people go about their business, play games.

"And we also liked how people were happy to move us to the right place. It was very warm and sincere. And now, in these moments of war, your solidarity reminds me that even in the most difficult moments we must demonstrate this warmth of soul! I really hope that when the war is over I will be able to come and the weather will be great!"

Stroud District Council plans to fly the Ukrainian flag at its offices in Ebley later this week.