Witham's MP has paid tribute to the extraordinary survivors who help educate people about the Holocaust today.

Priti Patel has signed the Holocaust Educational Trust's Book of Commitment, pledging her commitment to Holocaust Memorial Day and honouring the 17 million people who were murdered between 1941 and 1945.

In the run-up to the annual day of remembrance, thousands of commemorative events will be arranged by schools, faith groups and community organisations across the country and Ms Patel has sent information packs to each school in her constituency.

"Holocaust Memorial Day is an important opportunity for people from the Witham constituency and across the country to reflect on the tragic events of the Holocaust," she said.

"As the Holocaust moves from living history, to just history, it becomes ever more important that we take the time to remember the victims and also pay tribute to the survivors.

"The immense courage and bravery shown by survivors to speak about their horrific experiences serves as a reminder of why it is so important that we honour the memory of those who died and hold in high regard our values of freedom and tolerance.

"I would encourage my constituents to show their support for such an important day.”

Visit www.hmd.org.uk.