Almost 2,000 pupils and staff created a human chain across the city of York to show solidarity with the people of Ukraine. 

The prayer chain, which began at the Bar Convent and ran all the way to York Minster, was the idea of pupils at the city’s All Saints Roman Catholic School. 

Linked by yellow and blue ribbons, representing the colours of the Ukrainian flag, All Saints pupils were joined by those from Catholic primaries in the city, including year from Our Lady Queen of Martyrs, who went straight from Mass to the prayer chain.

Pupils from Manor Church of England Academy and the Mount School also joined in to show their support. 

Beginning at 11.10am, those taking part in the chain recited two prayers for peace and the symbolic stand against violence was brought to a moving close by the pupils singing the hymn Make Me a Channel of Your Peace. 

All Saints headteacher Sharon Keelan-Beardsley said: “Our students have all seen the horrors of war on their televisions and mobiles and sometimes they can feel impotent when all they want to do is help. 

“By praying together, they were able to take a stand and bear witness to our school values and values they live by, such as justice and compassion. 

“As I looked along the line of students, I felt very emotional, knowing that their response was heartfelt and their conviction in knowing what is right was very genuine. 

“The school will plan some fundraising activities to support the people of Ukraine, but the Pope asked the world to pray for peace in Ukraine at the start of Lent and I hope that collectively the prayers of our young people can change people’s hearts.”

York Central MP Rachael Maskell Tweeted: ?? I have just been reading letters that young people from All Saints School have written for me to take to the Ukrainian Embassy – so moving. Young people care so much for those in deepest need, they give such hope. ??