THE town played its part in keeping the memory of Holocaust victims alive during a commemoration ceremony at the Town Hall on Tuesday.

Deputy Mayor Cllr Geoff Settle led Warrington's Holocaust Memorial Day - one of many taking place across the country to mark this year's 70th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi death camp.

Cllr Settle was joined by councillors, council officers and representatives from the faith community, and began the ceremony with a speech, followed by lighting a candle of remembrance.

The Rev Stephen Kingsnorth, of the Warrington Borough Ministry, and canon Christopher Cunningham, the town's Roman Catholic Dean and Mayor’s Chaplain, shared readings and prayers.

“It is an honor to lead the commemoration today and to take part in the national event," said Cllr Settle.

"Holocaust Memorial Day is about remembering the millions of victims of the Holocaust, Nazi persecution and subsequent genocides.

“Today we are taking time to honour all those who fell and those who survived - it is also important that we raise awareness and understanding and play our part in making sure that these terrible events are not repeated.

"This is a time to show our respect for all faiths, celebrate our diverse communities and join in this national event to help keep the memory alive.”

A book of condolence is open in the Town Hall reception until Monday.