Borders’ MP John Lamont says that he was honoured to sign the Holocaust Educational Trust’s Book of Commitment on behalf of his constituents in the region.

Holocaust Memorial Day is marked on the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, 27th January 1945 and is the opportunity to reflect on 'one of humanity’s darkest moments.'

In the lead up to the day thousands of commemorative events were arranged by schools and community organisations across the country.

Holocaust Memorial Day was established following MP Andrew Dismore’s visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau with the Holocaust Educational Trust in 1999.

A new national Holocaust Memorial will be built next to the UK Parliament which is anticipated to open in 2025. The UK government will provide free entry to all visitors, in perpetuity.

Mr Lamont said: “It is a great honour to sign the Holocaust Book of Commitment on behalf of local residents in the Scottish Borders.

“On the 27th January, there is another important opportunity to reflect on one of humanity’s darkest moments.

“It is now 77 years since the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau. Soon we will be without first-hand accounts of this dreadful part of history.

“That makes it all the more important for us to take the time to remember the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust and pledge to never forget.

Karen Pollock CBE, Chief Executive of the Holocaust Educational Trust added: “As the Holocaust fades from living memory, it falls on all of us to ensure that their stories and the stories of the 6 Jewish million men, women and children brutally murdered by the Nazis and their collaborators, are never forgotten.

“We all have a duty to remember the Holocaust and to stand up against antisemitism and hate, now more than ever.”