CALLS for compassion and moving stories of those who escaped genocide filled this year's Holocaust Memorial Day ceremony.

The restrictions caused by the pandemic did not stop the annual remembrance event that has been held in Swindon for 20 years from going ahead.

Though this year, councillors, MPs, community representatives and Swindonians gathered in a Zoom meeting rather than in person.

Matt Holland organised the virtual ceremony, which began with the midday bells of the town centre clock echoing through the speakers of the 51 people in attendance and a performance from cellist Debbie Jennings.

He spoke of this year's theme, being a light in the darkness, which encourages people to help others who face prejudice and persecution, and resist the spread of misinformation and divisive talk of 'us and them'.

Mr Holland said: “We remember with respect, love and as much understanding as we can, the many children, women and men of all nations and races who have suffered and perished in genocides.

"Now more than ever, there is a need to be a light in the darkness, to stop division and the spread of misinformation, misunderstandings and political hostility.

"“Fortunately, many people who fled persecution in their countries of birth have rebuilt their lives and supported wonderful new communities all over Europe, Britain and here in Swindon.

“It is the courage and determination of those who survived and rebuilt their lives that we can draw on to use words and actions of compassion, kindness and understanding to make things better for everyone."

Elspeth Wollen told the story of adopted relative Francis Deutsch, who joined the family when her aunt and uncle took him in after arrived in London on the Kindertransport as a 13-year-old.

He married and spent his life working as a solicitor, representing asylum seekers and the marginalised, with a dedication to human rights and racial justice.

Ruth Holland talked about the ordinary citizens who were complicit in the horrors of the Holocaust, Rev Simon Stevenette gave a short sermon, and Colleen Prendergast remembered her visits to Auschwitz and a memorial to the genocide in Rwanda.

She said: "We must teach our children to have the courage to stand up to lies, hate and prejudice. Let us all light a candle to send a message of light and hope."

Mayor of Swindon Garry Perkins laid a wreath at the town centre Cenotaph before joining the online event and saying a few words.

He said: "I felt it was necessary to put that sign down to remind and on behalf of the people of Swindon that we will never forget.

"We always think of the horrors in Europe but these atrocities continue. We have always been very welcoming to those many people who have fled atrocities.

"The Harbour Project and City of Sanctuary have made Swindon a centre for welcoming these people. They are part of Swindon and we should always maintain our welcome."

Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire Sarah Troughton said the ceremony was "most moving" and that the stories had been sad but uplifting and optimistic.

South Swindon MP Robert Buckland said: “Thank you Matt for today’s event and for the fellowship of friends and others as we reflect on this important day.”

Barbara Parry said: “Thank you Matt for your continued efforts and to all of the speakers.

“This is such an important event and it is crucial that our future generations continue to reflect, respect and live in peace.”