Gosport residents are being asked to share their love as part of a special civic service ahead of Valentines Day.
Residents are invited to join the service on 11 February which will celebrate the compassion and generosity of spirit that Gosport’s community continues show to each other and to those many people suffering the impact of conflict across the globe.

In recognition of the borough’s support for those in need, from many countries, the service will involve Ukrainian citizens living in Gosport alongside the Borough’s Mayor and Mayoress.

Mayor of Gosport, Cllr Martin Pepper said: “There’s so much compassion and willingness to help those in need within Gosport that the Mayoress and I are proud to demonstrate our love of Gosport, our community and the open arms that we collectively show to those in need.  Our civic service aims to bring us together to celebrate those special qualities. We will be taking the opportunity to involve some of those who have joined us as refugees in recent years to demonstrate that they are a very welcome part of our community”.

Reverend Sean Blackman said: “Valentines Day is a time we celebrate our love for others, and we thought it was a good moment to remind everyone of our ongoing love for those around the world. We’ve done a great job of supporting Ukrainians both nationally and locally, and it’s important we continue to demonstrate that.”

The service will take place at the Freedom Church on Netherton Road, from 10.30am until noon. There will be refreshments after the service and opportunities for people to give to charities offering support for those affected by the ongoing war in Ukraine.”