On 26^th January 2006 I attended a Holocaust Memorial Ceremony at the Civic Centre which was hosted by Southend Council.

The event was attended by many people of many different faiths.  Guest speakers included Wojciech Zemla who is the Chief Executive of Sopot Council. Sopot, a small town in Poland, is twinned with Southend-on-Sea.

Wojciech Zemla’s heartfelt speech was made all the more meaningful by being presented in his native Polish tongue. A simultaneous translation was provided by one of his two colleagues, who were also guests at the event.

Another speaker was Otto Deutsch who escaped as a child to England from Austria during the 1930's. He gave a true-life, heart-rending account of living under Nazi rule. He vividly described the painful separation from his family who had to remain in Austria, and the great kindness he received when reaching his safe haven of Britain.

I have heard Otto speak before, but he is such an eloquent speaker and his personal story is so full of meaning that I was transfixed yet again by what he said.

Rabbi Lew, Southend Mayor Chris Dandridge and his chaplain Reverend Robin Eastoe also spoke on the subject of the Holocaust and the importance of remembering what happened in those times.

The Southend Boys and Girls choir gave a beautifully moving musical recital, and the very talented local accordionist Tony Compton played a melodic selection of tunes to suit the occasion. Artwork and thoughts on the Holocaust by local school children were on display at the Civic Centre, and are still available to view. The following day a tree was planted in Shoebury Park and two peace doves released as part of this year’s local commemoration.

by Mike Royston

31st January 2006.

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