RESIDENTS are being invited to go on a journey of remembrance by attending a special Holocaust Memorial Day in the town centre.

The Holocaust Memorial Day, which is being led by Redditch Borough Council, will take place on Saturday, January 25.

This year the event focuses on the theme of journeys with the aim of remembering the experiences of Holocaust and genocide survivors whose journeys were often forced upon them.

The whole event is free and will include a procession fromRedditch Town Hall at 10.30am and two memorial ceremonies; one at Worcester Square in the Kingfisher Centre at 11.20am and one shortly after at the Holocaust marker in Church Green.

A number of local children will be dressing in national costumes whilst singing and dancing during the ceremony at the Kingfisher Centre.

Residents are also invited to come back to the town hall at 12.30pm for light refreshments as well as a small exhibition, book fair and a talk by guest speaker and Holocaust survivor, Eva Clarke

Leader of the council and chair of the steering group, Bill Hartnett, said: “I am so pleased that we are holding this event again in Redditch. As always, I know the day will be particularly moving and I am looking forward to hearing the story of Eva Clarke.

“This year’s theme is particularly poignant because although it relates to physical journeys in the main, we are all on our own journeys through life, with different trials and tribulations to overcome, so I would encourage everyone to come along as we can all learn something from this event.”

Although led predominantly by Redditch Borough Council, the event comes as part of a partnership with other individuals and community groups that have a passionate interest in this area.

For more information, contact Val Wilson, events officer for the council on 01527 534030 or email events@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk.