HOLOCAUST Memorial Day takes place today to mark the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau in 1945.

The day offers the opportunity to remember the the six million Jewish men, women and children who were murdered by the Nazis.

It is also a chance to pay tribute to the survivors and the victims of later genocides that have taken place since the horrors of the Holocaust.

As the UK marks Holocaust Memorial Day, Redditch MP Rachel Maclean said: “On this day in 1945, the largest Nazi death camp, Auschwitz-Birkenau, was liberated. To mark the anniversary of its liberation, Holocaust Memorial Day provides us all with an opportunity to remember the six million Jewish men, women and children who were murdered, all victims of Nazi persecution.

“It’s an important opportunity for Redditch and the country to reflect on the tragic events of the Holocaust and of subsequent genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur.

“As each year passes and the Holocaust moves from living history, to just history, it becomes even more important we take the time to remember the victims and pay tribute to the survivors.

“Let’s stand together against prejudice, hostility, and division in the world today.”

Redditch will come to together to mark Holocaust Memorial Day at the town's official commemoration event on Saturday January 29.

The event takes takes place at Church Green from 10.30am.