WELLINGTON Monument was illuminated in blue and yellow for the first time last night to show “support and solidarity with the people of Ukraine”.
A member of the National Trust’s management team went to the landmark yesterday to set its new colours, which will be visible at night for a week.
Since Russia launched a “full-scale” invasion of Ukraine on February 24, international landmarks have been lit in blue and yellow, including 10 Downing Street, the Eiffel Tower, the Empire State Building, Brandenburg Gate and the Coliseum.
Councillor Nancy Powell-Brace, who opened Odette's Tearoom with Victoria Osborne in 2015, contacted the National Trust and started a petition on Change.org calling for the monument to be lit - but she said the petition was "not needed" as the trust had already decided to act.
“I have been fortunate enough to work closely with National Trust representatives on the restoration of the monument, but I do know that sometimes one needs evidence to back up a request,” said Cllr Powell-Brace.
“I created the petition so that, should it prove to be a difficult act of persuasion, I had the feelings of the town of Wellington behind me.
“In fact, the petition was not needed.
“I contacted my friends at the National Trust, and they passed my email on to the relevant person, James Mcwilliam, and he replied within 24 hours that the National Trust would be lighting up the monument.
“We are able to support the Ukrainian citizens with collections and appeals, but this is a statement and a visual spectacle from Wellington that we support their fight for freedom.
“The response to the decision from the town has been overwhelming in its gratitude and support of the gesture.”
A National Trust spokesperson said: “The invasion of Ukraine has caused an outpouring of support for its people, from individuals and organisations around the world.
“The National Trust shares in this support.
“Some National Trust landmarks and buildings, including the Wellington Monument, are being lit in blue and yellow to show our solidarity with the people of Ukraine.
“We are encouraging staff and volunteers affected by the situation in Ukraine to make use of our confidential counselling and advice services for support.
“Those wishing to support families fleeing the conflict are encouraged to make a donation to the Disasters Emergency Committee’s (DEC’s) Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal.
“The Trust also stands with UNESCO and those in the cultural and creative world in calling for the protection of Ukraine’s rich cultural heritage, and the respect of all involved for the 1954 Hague Convention on the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict.”
In August, the 175-ft obelisk re-opened to the public after the completion of a £3.1 million restoration project.
Read more: Wellington School sends aid to Ukraine
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