NEVER allowing those who fell victim to genocide from being forgotten was the message at a service held in Newport yesterday.

Crowds of people packed Newport Cathedral for the solemn Holocaust Memorial Day service which reflected both the importance of remembering genocide victims and how the loss of a safe place is part of the trauma of those being persecuted.

The service began with a rendition of Amazing Grace, followed by an address by dean of the cathedral Lister Tongue.

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"I would like to thank so many of you for coming to the service," he said.

"We need to remember those who have been oppressed and fallen victim throughout the years.

"Tragedies are still happening across the world.

"We need to work towards a better future."

He added:" I believe we can make a better future, but the future rests on your shoulders."

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Pupils from Caerleon Comprehensive School, Llanwern High School and Bassaleg School delivered a selection of poems and songs, which reflected the horrors of Nazi atrocities, as well subsequent genocides in Rwanda, Cambodia, Bosnia and Darfur.

An emotional poem entitled Auschwitz, penned by Charles N. Whittaker, was read aloud and when delivered had a rhythm designed to resemble trains transporting people to concentration camps.

This was followed by a striking address from the mayor of Newport Malcolm Linton, who said everyone bears a responsibility to tackle hatred wherever they see it.

"We still have a job to do," he said.

"We must tackle and challenge discrimination when we see it.

"Holocaust Remembrance Day is a good way for us to start because there is still a lot we can do."

Ringland Primary School pupils also took part in a candle procession, where candles were carried to the front of the cathedral, with the name of victims of genocide read aloud and Gwent Music Brass playing music.

Among those to attend this year's service were the lord-lieutenant of Gwent Brigadier Robert Aitken, assembly members for Newport East and West Jayne Bryant and John Griffiths, leader of Newport City Council Cllr Debbie Wilcox, former leader of Newport council Cllr Matthew Evans, as well as many others.