THE funeral of a British aid worker who was killed in Ukraine was held in Truro Cathedral last Friday. A peace vigil in his name was held the night before.

Chris Parry, aged 28, died alongside a fellow volunteer, Andrew Bagshaw, 47, when their car was hit by an artillery shell, their families understand.

Mr Parry’s coffin was draped in a Cornish flag for the service, when it was carried in for the service, which was led by the cathedral’s Chancellor, Canon Alan Bashforth. Mr Parry’s sister, Kate, said that the family had been helped by knowing how many people loved Chris, both in Ukraine and at home.

The peace vigil on Thursday evening of last week included prayers, the lighting of candles, and the voices of the Ukrainian Sunflowers Choir, which comprises Ukrainian women and children living in Cornwall.

One choir member, Irina Williams, paid tribute to Mr Parry, who was born in Truro. She said: “Our hearts are crying for all fallen heroes who bravely fought for the freedom and independence of Ukraine and the democracy of the whole entire world.

“I would like to say to the Parry family that all Ukrainians join you in a time of immense sadness, and want you to know that Christopher did not die in vain.”

The Bishop of St Germans, the Rt Revd Hugh Nelson, said: “By being here together, we are saying we will not turn away; we will not ignore the suffering of those who have lost loved ones, homes, security. By being here today, we are saying we will pay attention to what matters: to justice, to mercy.

“And, by being here, we are saying we see you, people of the Ukraine: we see your pain, and we will not fall asleep and we will not ignore the truth.”