Victims of the Holocaust and other genocides were remembered in a service to mark Holocaust Memorial Day.

Romford Recorder: A memorial service takes place to mark the 68th anniversary of the Holocaust, in Coronation gardens, Romford. Marshall Park School pupils perform.A memorial service takes place to mark the 68th anniversary of the Holocaust, in Coronation gardens, Romford. Marshall Park School pupils perform. (Image: Archant)

More than 100 people attended the service on Sunday January 27 in Coronation Gardens, Romford, which had a national theme of Communities Together-Build a Bridge.

Leader of the Council, Michael White said: “Holocaust Memorial Day in 2012 asked you to Speak Up and Speak Out.

“You gave a voice to the voiceless and challenged the language of hatred.

“Today we are asking you to respect different communities”.

The service was also attended by Havering Mayor Cllr Lynden Thorpe.

The Mayor’s cadet Lucy Croxall gave a moving reading of Race by the author Karen Gershon.

There was also a poignant reflection by Father David Anders oof St Edward’s Church before the Mayor and other civic guests laid candles at the Hoocaust Memorial while Marshalls Park Schhool Choir sang At A Distance.

A reception was held after the service at Wykeham Hall with more music from Marshalls Park School and flue music from Isobel Liebman.

Cllr White said: “In cities, boroughs, towns and villages-wherever we live, there are others around us.

“Our communities are made up of individuals with different backgrounds, occupations and lives.

“Communities may be defined by geography, by interest, by cultural activites or by faith.”

He added: “Each of you can do your part by respecting difference in your local community-whether that’s individually or through community groups.

“By making connections with and between communities we can do our part to prevent hatred and discrimination.”