HITCHIN: Our town's iconic 12th century church has been proudly flying the Ukraine flag.

Hitchin's beautiful 12th century church in the heart of our town has been flying the blue and yellow flag in support of Ukraine and its brave but beleaguered people.

Normally, St Mary's only flies the Cross of St George flag for England, with the Emblem of the Diocese of St Albans in the corner, for significant days including Easter, Christmas, St George's Day and this week to mark the Annunciation.

For the Queen's Birthday and Remembrance Sunday St Mary's fly the Union Jack.

However, because of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the suffering that has come from the ongoing humanitarian crisis that has seen nearly four million people including women, children and the elderly flee the war-torn country.

Speaking to Hitchin Nub News, a spokesperson for the church explained: ""St Mary's Church community wanted to show their solidarity with the people of Ukraine and the suffering they are enduring, as we remember them in our prayers.

"Individual churches have a bit of leeway about what they do, but this is the first time we have ever flown another country's flag, which reflects the unique situation."

St Mary's is continuing its special collections in support of the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. All donations received are being routed via the Disasters Emergency Committee.

In the days between March 4 to March 20, the church has raised more than £3,100.

St Mary's said: "We have gratefully received cash and cheques to the value £3103.81 which has all been sent to the DEC."

Details of how to donate are on St Mary's website https://www.stmaryshitchin.co.uk/