Tag Archives: Aleppo

Vigil held as Sheffield stands in solidarity with the people of Aleppo

Over a hundred people came out for a silent vigil outside Sheffield Town Hall, in solidarity for the fallen in Aleppo, Syria and those at risk as government forces retake rebel held areas. Many held up signs, some waved the Syrian flag, others lit candles but all had the same message. They called for an immediate ceasefire, peaceful evacuation for civilians and humanitarian aid by international organisations. Syrian activist Noor Barotchi lives in Sheffield and spoke to the crowd with updates from activists on the ground in Aleppo. Simon Thake reports for Sheffield Live!

Sheffield Syrians warn of perilous Aleppo evacuation

The operation to evacuate a besieged rebel-held enclave in the Syrian city of Aleppo is now underway according to UN officials and Syria observers. The evacuation of civilians, rebels and wounded people had been due to take place on Wednesday but an earlier ceasefire deal collapsed. Government forces took nearly all remaining rebel-held parts of Aleppo this week after a four-year battle. Syrian state TV said that “4,000 rebels and their families would be evacuated from eastern districts on Thursday” but Syrian campaigners in Sheffield believe there remain serious concerns for the safety of those leaving Aleppo. Simon Thake reports for Sheffield Live!

Sheffield pupil’s artwork unveiled as tribute to those who fell in Battle of the Somme

A fused glass art installation designed by Molly Meleady-Hanley has been unveiled at a war memorial by the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of South Yorkshire and the Lord Mayor of Sheffield. Molly, aged 13, a pupil at Mount St Mary’s College, created the artwork in memory of the pupils and school staff who fought and died in the Battle of the Somme in 1916. The striking tribute was inspired by the centenary of the battle and the forthcoming 175th anniversary of the school. The piece was unveiled in a special ceremony in front of the whole school and invited guests, including the Bishop of Hallam, Ralph Heskett, the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of South Yorkshire, John Holt and the Lord Mayor of Sheffield, Councillor Denise Fox. Baillor Jalloh reports for Sheffield Live!