TUESDAY saw more than 30 people gather around the Frank Foley Statue in Market Street in Highbridge to mark 70 years since the liberation of Auschwitz- Birkenau.

Members of Highbridge War Memorial Trust came together with local residents to mark the anniversary by lighting one of 70 candles at midday.

The sombre memorial also reflected on the many people who were killed during the Holocaust, and honoured the survivors.

Candles were lit simultaneously across the UK including a national commemorative event in central London and also at Auschwitz as part of international commemorations.

The Highbridge War Memorial Trust was chosen from hundreds of applications sent to the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust, which is responsible for marking Holocaust Day in the UK.

Joyce Curtis, chairman of the former Frank Foley Committee, lit the candle at the special service in Highbridge.

She said: “It is vital we remember and reflect upon the horrors of the past, and honour those who survived.

“The service went really well and some people also joined us for a light lunch afterwards.

“It was a huge honour to light the very lovely candle that was given to us.

“Holocaust Memorial Day is an important focal point in the year and we were delighted that Highbridge was selected to be part of this nationwide commemoration.”

Cllr Peter Downing, chairman of Sedgemoor District Council and Mayor of Burnham and Highbridge Town Council Cllr Martin Cox were present at the service.

Olivia Marks-Woldman, chief executive of the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust, said: “When all 70 candles were lit throughout the country, it was a poignant moment of remembrance and a time for us all to ensure we keep the memory alive.”

For details about the Holocaust Memorial Day and events taking place, visit hmd.org.uk or follow the trust on Twitter – @hmd_UK