Reflecting on tragic lessons of the past

From the Swindon Advertiser, first published Saturday 28th Jan 2006.

PEOPLE across Swindon took time out of their day to pay their respects to those who died in the holocaust.

A crowd gathered outside the cenotaph yesterday morning as Swindon Mayor Ray Fisher laid a wreath. Afterwards everyone was invited back to the Friends Meeting House on Eastcott Hill to listen to readings and to take part in quiet reflection.

The theme for this year's event was "One person can make a difference".

Coun Justin Tomlinson (Con, Abbey Meads) said: "The aim of the day is to mark not only the holocaust but also to remember numerous other human rights tragedies around the world, including persecution and wars."

Last year's event was marred after a traffic warden demanded the mayor move his car halfway through the service.

The organiser Matt Holland said: "Since 2001 when the idea was first suggested of remembering human rights tragedies nationally in the UK, the people of Swindon have been active participants.

"Not only have many community leaders, faith groups and individuals taken part each year, with talks and readings, but also in Swindon schools, children have been active in many ways reflecting on the past and hoping for a better future."

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