VICTIMS and survivors of the Holocaust are being remembered through a series of events in York.

The Holocaust Memorial Day programme, led by City of York Council, today included a civic event being held at York St John University, with the speakers including a woman who escaped with her life.

Edith Jayne was due to speak about her harrowing experiences, with the Lord Mayor of York, Coun Keith Hyman, talking about the effects of apartheid in Cape Town and the reasons why his own family left South Africa. Meanwhile, Riding Lights and York Theatre Royal youth theatre groups were also taking part in the form of a new performance based on material from York’s Refugee Committee Minute Book.

York’s Holocaust Memorial Day programme features events and activities at venues across the city, organised by partners including the University of York, York St John University, the New School House Gallery, City Screen and the South Bank Community Centre.

On Sunday, a candle-lit commemoration of one of the blackest episodes in York’s history, the 1190 massacre of Jews at Clifford’s Tower, will be held with a guest choir from Moriah Jewish Day School in London performing alongside pupils from Burnholme Community College.

Other events include two Jewish Heritage trails recalling the medieval and modern Jewish community’s contribution to York’s story, with the second of these taking place on Sunday. School workshops throughout the city have also been arranged, supported by York Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE).

“This year’s programme is larger and more diverse than that of previous years, including songs, performances, photographic exhibitions and lectures, as well as giving opportunities for reflection and contemplation,” said Coun Sonja Crisp, the council’s cabinet member for leisure, culture and tourism.

“York is committed to promoting a more secure and inclusive society for all, and the city actively seeks to ensure we all play a part in making York a tolerant and welcoming place.”

Everybody is welcome to take part in the Holocaust Memorial Day programme, which continues into February.

Many of the events are free although some require advance booking.

For details, visit yorkfestivals.com, phone the council on 01904 554275 or email artseducation@york.gov.uk