Flags are flying at half mast on Dutch government buildings on Friday as the Netherlands remembers the 298 people who died on board Malaysian Airways flight MH17.

The plane carrying mainly Dutch holidaymakers was shot down over eastern Ukraine a year ago, apparently by pro-Russian rebels.

In Hilversum, sunflowers are being placed in front of the St Vitus church by schools and people who were close to the Hilversum victims.

Later in the day, prime minister Mark Rutte will attend a closed gathering for families in Nieuwegein. Around 2,000 people are expected to attend.

Other people who wish to pay their respects can go to Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport where a special area has been set up in departure hall three.

Memorial services are also taking place in Australia and Ukraine.