THE 70th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz gave special importance to the annual Holocaust Memorial Day in Northwood.

For the first two weeks of February, nearly 2,000 pupils from schools in the area, attended a series of events organised by Northwood United Synagogue and Northwood and Pinner Liberal Synagogue.

Students aged 9-13 attended an educational workshop and had the opportunity to hear a Holocaust survivor recount his personal stories.

Each session was brought to a conclusion with a closing speech from the rabbi, followed by a minute’s silence and the lighting of a memorial candle.

Head of the organising committee, Jonathan Drapkin, said: “The aim of these events is to ensure that the horrendous crimes of racism and victimisation that were committed are neither forgotten, nor repeated.”

Any school or college wishing to take part in one of Northwood's Holocaust Memorial Day events next year should email enquiries@northwoodhmd.org.uk or call 08456 448 006.