This year marks the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau. To mark this important milestone, and to draw together commemorations taking place across the UK, the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust created 70 special candles, designed by internationally renowned sculptor Sir Anish Kapoor to be lit.
Havant was selected to host one of these extremely special candles to mark the Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) commemorations.
The Mayor of Havant, Councillor Marjorie Smallcorn hosted a service held on 27th January at Havant Cemetery, Eastern Road, Havant.
Joining her was Steven Schrier of Hayling Island representing the Jewish community; who lost members of his family during the Holocaust, accompanied by Erin Stott and Sam Chadwick from Oaklands School, Waterlooville to light the candle. Erin and Sam have recently visited Auschwitz to learn of the atrocities that took place there.
The Mayor of Havant, Councillor Marjorie Smallcorn said: â€This is a very important date in our calendar. We are honoured to have been chosen to host one of the 70 special candles to commemorate the 70th anniversary. During the ceremony we reflected upon the impact of man’s inhumanity to man through persecution, conflict and genocide. We remembered those who suffered and died in the Holocaust and other atrocities, and hope that we can learn from the lessons of history.â€