More than 100 people came together at an event in Bushey to show their support for peace in Ukraine and all those affected by conflict around the world.

Mahatma Gandhi famously said that "an eye for an eye would leave the whole world blind" and it was with this understanding that all in attendance came together in solidarity with the common goal that love and peace should prevail at this delicate time of suffering and pain.

The Vigil for Peace, held at the Jain faith-based Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur (SRMD) London Spiritual Centre on March 6, brought together various prominent members of the community.

This included Watford MP Dean Russell, mayor of Hertsmere Cllr Anne Swerling, Bushey councillor and chairman of Hertfordshire County Council, Cllr Seamus Quilty, councillors from Bushey and Watford, representatives from the Christian, Hindu, Jain, Jewish, Muslim and Zoroastrian faiths, and residents.

Watford Observer: Watford MP Dean Russell lighting a candle Watford MP Dean Russell lighting a candle

The vigil commenced with the lighting of candles to signify hope for a peaceful resolution and to remember those suffering and have lost their lives in the current Eastern Europe conflict.

Various members of the community shared messages of peace and love, which touched the audience and resonated with all present and a universal prayer by the Jain faith was performed.

The charitable wing of the SMRD – Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care - ran a project to collect donations such as hygiene products, first aid and stationery items as part of their Ukraine Appeal to support several organisations, namely, The Lewisham Polish Centre, Transporters to Ukraine, Slough Polish Association and Goods for Goods in Watford.