PUPILS from St Joseph’s Academy were represented at an event to mark Holocaust Memorial Day.

They were there to remember those who lost their lives in the atrocity and other similar acts of cruelty towards fellow humans.

Keep The Memory Alive took place at East Ayrshire Council’s headquarters as candles were lit memory of all those who lost their lives during the Holocaust, Nazi persecution and in subsequent genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur.

Guests at the event were given well-researched presentations by the pupils on what they have learned about the Holocaust as well as powerful insights into visits that some of the pupils recently made to Auschwitz.

After the candle were lit, a minute’s silence was held was held to remember the events of more than 70 years ago.

Councillor Clare Maitland, Cabinet Member with responsibility for equalities, inclusion and poverty, said: “Holocaust Memorial Day is a time when we seek to learn the lessons of the past and recognise that genocide does not just take place on its own, it’s a steady process which can begin if discrimination, racism and hatred are not checked and prevented.

“Sadly, in some parts of the world, genocide continues and we can’t sit back on our laurels on this one.

“Here, discrimination has not ended, nor has the use of the language of hatred or exclusion.

“We all have a responsibility to do what we can in our everyday lives, in the way we speak, treat people and in the example we set to others, to create a safer, fairer future for everyone.

“Holocaust Memorial Day gives us an opportunity to examine history, some of it very recent indeed, learn from it, recognise what needs to change and move forward.”

Artwork was created in conjunction with the event which was also displayed during the gathering.

Other Holocaust Memorial Days took place at Ayrshire College, where social studies students also made and displayed powerful posters.