The leader and deputy leader of Cheshire East Council have issued a statement in response to the ongoing situation in Ukraine.

Councillor Sam Corcoran, leader of the council, said: "My thoughts, hopes and prayers are with the people of Ukraine and anyone who is affected by this shocking and tragic incursion.

"The impacts of Vladimir Putin's decision to invade Ukraine will be felt more widely than within the boundaries of that nation.

"In Cheshire East, we have a long and proud history of welcoming workers and their families from Eastern Europe, many of whom, over the years, have chosen to make our borough their home and have been valued members of our community across a number of generations.

"I can only imagine how the developments of the last few days have affected people with close links to Ukraine and its neighbouring countries, including Poland, Romania and Slovakia."

Deputy leader of Cheshire East Council, Councillor Craig Browne, said: "I am sure that everyone in Cheshire East will join us hoping and praying for a swift resolution to the appalling turn of events.

"While this is an international crisis, there are likely to be local impacts, such as rising fuel costs and pressure on supply chains, on top of predicted increases in living costs.

"There is also the possibility of a significant number of refugees seeking a safe place while hostilities continue and, of course, we will all want to do all we can to support them.

"Many residents of the borough will no doubt be thinking about what they can do to help in terms of supporting the humanitarian response to this crisis and I would draw their attention to the British Red Cross Ukraine Appeal, which is helping to provide food, medicines and basic hygiene supplies to people who have been displaced.

"I have personally made a donation to the appeal and would encourage others to do the same, if they feel able to."

Cllr Corcoran added: "In coming days and weeks, it may be that we see Ukrainian families seeking refuge as they escape the violence in their home country.

"I am proud that the people of Cheshire East have, in the last few years, found it in their hearts to welcome people from overseas who are seeking to escape adversity.

"The council has played a key role through the asylum seeker dispersal programme, the Syrian vulnerable person resettlement programme and most recently, the Afghan relocations and assistance policy.

"I would hope that, if needed, the council and the people of Cheshire East will provide a similar welcome and support in response to this most recent crisis."