BARROW and Furness MP John Woodcock has signed his support for Holocaust Memorial Day to honour those who died.

This Sunday marks the 68th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the Nazi concentration and extermination camp.

It is regarded as the site of the largest mass murder in history.

The Holocaust Educational Trust placed a book of commitment in the House of Commons, giving MPs the chance to honour those who were persecuted and killed during the Holocaust.

It also encourages MPs and constituents to work together to combat prejudice and racism.

In signing the book, Mr Woodcock paid tribute to those who perished and honoured the survivors who work tirelessly to educate young people through the Holocaust Educational Trust’s Outreach programme.

This year, people will also be encouraged to honour those communities that have been destroyed by genocide and reflect on the importance of coming together to oppose prejudice and hatred.

Mr Woodcock said: “Holocaust Memorial Day is an important opportunity to remember the victims of the Holocaust and subsequent genocides. I encourage all constituents to mark the day and to join members of community in the fight against prejudice and intolerance.”

Karen Pollock MBE, chief executive of the Holocaust Educational Trust, said: “We are proud that John Woodcock is supporting Holocaust Memorial Day this year. It is vitally important that we both remember and learn from the appalling events of the Holocaust – as well as ensuring that we continue to challenge all forms of hatred and bigotry.”