Town pays tribute to those killed in Holocaust (From Swindon Advertiser)

Town pays tribute to those killed in Holocaust

11:35am Friday 27th January 2012 in Local

people will be gathering at the Cenotaph in Regents Circus today to remember those who lost their life during the Holocaust.

The theme of this year’s event is “Speak Up, Speak Out” and today marks the day when the Auschwitz concentration camps were liberated in 1945.

Holocaust Memorial Day was first marked nationally in 2001, and is now established as an annual day of remembrance.

There will be a short wreath-laying ceremony at the Cenotaph in Regents Circus at noon, followed by a gathering for readings and reflection at 12.30 pm at the Friends Meeting House, Eastcott Hill.

Swindon Council leader Roderick Bluh said: “I am proud that Swindon has marked this day for the past 11 years – the event is so important in reminding future generations of horrors that must never be repeated.”

The event will also be attended by the Mayor of Swindon, Ray Ballman.

The gathering at the Friends Meeting House is expected to last an hour, with readings and presentations by members of many of Swindon's faith groups and community groups, as well as contributions from individuals.

Light lunchtime refreshments, including sandwiches and hot drinks, will be provided.

Information and a more national perspective about Holocaust Memorial Day can be found at www.hmd.org.uk.