The Bishop of Exeter has encouraged people across the South West to join in two days of prayer for peace following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The first is on Sunday (February 27) and the second is on Ash Wednesday, March 2.

The Rt Rev Robert Atwell, who is a member of the House of Lords, said: ‘Our hearts go out to the people of Ukraine as they struggle for their survival and self-determination.

‘We will be upholding them this Sunday and on Ash Wednesday as we join with people throughout the world in praying for stability and peace and justice.’

Bishop Robert said he was also mindful of members of the British military and their families at this time:

‘Here in Devon our hearts are with members of the armed forces, particularly those who are stationed in the Baltic republics of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.

‘We pray for their families back here in Devon, in their profound anxiety for them.

‘Let’s pray that peace may prevail and that the leaders of the nations may be persuaded to come together to find peaceful ways of reconciling difference, where there is justice and respect for all.’