To mark Holocaust Memorial Day the MP for Hertsmere has signed the Book of Commitment to remember those who died and survived the Holocaust.

A candlelit parade and ceremony will be held tonight (January 27) with the Mayor of Hertsmere, Cllr Martin Worster, leading the parade and MP for Hertsmere Oliver Dowden will be attending as well.

Mr Dowden has also signed the Holocaust Educational Trust’s Book of Commitment in remembrance of those who died during the Second World War.

Mr Dowden said: “Holocaust Memorial Day today marks the anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi concentration and death camp Auschwitz-Birkenau.

“It is an important opportunity to remember the victims and survivors of the Holocaust and make sure they are not forgotten.

“I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the extraordinary Holocaust survivors who work tirelessly to educate young people, such as Harry Bibring from our own community in Bushey.

“I encourage all constituents to mark Holocaust Memorial Day and to join members of our community in the fight against prejudice and intolerance.”

A flag was flown at the Civic Offices in Borehamwood to mark Holocaust Memorial Day.

Borehamwood Town Mayor, Richard Butler, paid his respects to Holocaust Memorial Day.

He said: “As we mark Holocaust Memorial Day and commemorate 71 years since the liberation of the concentration camps, we need now more than ever, to remember the horrors that happened in the Holocaust.

“We need to remind ourselves what happened and educate future generations so we may never forget in years to come.

“As we currently see countries torn apart from war and people flee from the homes they had it is our duty to ensure that no one group is attacked because of religion, race, culture or sexual orientation.

“I want to ensure that the people within Elstree and Borehamwood can walk the streets and live together as a community that respects all.

“I am greatly disturbed by recent reports of antisemitism in our town and on local social media groups.

“During my Mayoralty I will be ensuring that police and other agencies leave no stone unturned in dealing with hate crime of any sort.

“Please take a moment and think hard about the victims of the Holocaust. Pay tribute to the survivors and remind yourself that we can never allow this to happen again.”

The parade will begin in Potters Bar starting at 6pm.