Staffordshire is set to mark Holocaust Memorial Day on Wednesday 27 January with a series of virtual events of remembrance and reconciliation.

The online services will remember those who lost their lives during the Nazi persecution and genocide.

People are being invited to join a virtual ceremony being streamed online at 7pm on Wednesday. People can register on the official website to receive the link in advance of the ceremony. Using the hashtags #HolocaustMemorialDay #LightTheDarkness, people will be able to join in the commemorations.

Later that evening at 8pm, households across the UK will be encouraged to light candles and put them in their windows to remember those who were murdered for who they were and to make a stand against prejudice and hatred.

Alan White, Leader of Staffordshire County Council said: "This is an important annual event when we all join together to remember those lives affected by persecution and genocide.

"By bringing people and communities together we can not only celebrate our diversity, but we can build a better future for everyone.

"This year of course will be very different because of the Covid-19 restrictions but I would encourage people to try and find a few moments to remember at home or take part in some of the online activities and ceremonies."

To find out more about the full list of events taking place around the country, click here.