This week has been the most poignant week of the year with the third anniversary of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine.

I was invited to mark the occasion by the Chairman of the Ukrainian Community in Worcestershire.

The event was at Eden Church in Malvern and the Mayor of Malvern kindly gave permission for me to wear the chain of office, as is customary, outside of Worcester.

At the beginning of the event, we all stood, and the national anthem of Ukraine was sung with the flag paraded.

Thank you was paid to those who have bravely defended Ukraine, with tributes to those fallen and injured. There was also a heart-wrenching video which gave an upfront view of the brutality of the war.

Speeches, which were all very emotional, were made and thank you certificates given out to some lovely people who support the Ukrainian community in many ways. These have included things like accommodation, education and car maintenance, amongst others.

Councillor Lynn Denham, Cllr Brandon Clayton and myself were there on behalf of the councils and we were kindly thanked for our support.

Some brilliantly talented pupils from Ukraine beautifully performed words, music and dance, which all had a meaning.

The event closed with traditional Ukrainian food and gifts, which enabled donations and time to talk.

Ukrainians you are forever an inspiration to me.

Looking ahead to September, I was able to launch Worcester City Runs with Steve Cram, the team, event sponsors and some of those planning to run the event

The event has been going since 2014 and last year over 5,000 competitors took part!

The first-time runners in attendance have been given coaching support, including from Steve Cram, so are in excellent hands.

It is super that they will be kindly sharing their stories with us in the build up to the event, which I am quite sure will be an inspiration for all those future runners out there.