An annual act of remembrance marking Holocaust Memorial Day will take place in Poole this weekend.
The Bournemouth and Poole Holocaust Memorial Day Committee is hosting the event at Lighthouse Poole on Sunday January 25, bringing together people of different ages to reflect on the 2026 theme Bridging Generations through shared testimony and commemoration.
Those attending will hear from two speakers, including sixth former Maisie Kiff, who will talk about her experience on the Holocaust Educational Trust’s Lessons from Auschwitz Project, alongside Melvyn Leach, who will share the story of his relative Willy Halpert.
Willy Halpert was a hidden child in Belgium during the Second World War, saved by the Belgian Resistance after his parents were taken by the Nazis, with his story now shared through filmed testimony as part of Melvyn’s work with Generation 2 Generation.
Lynda Ford-Horne, from the committee, said first hand accounts remain essential, adding that Bridging Generations highlights the responsibility of younger people to listen, learn and carry these lessons forward as survivor voices become fewer.
The event begins with a formal act of commemoration, including candles lit by adults and young people, reflecting the connection between memory, responsibility and the future.
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