A holocaust Memorial Day will be held in Swindon on Saturday, January 27.

The new national remembrance day is being introduced as a mark of respect to all victims of Nazi persecution, to raise awareness, and to assert a continuing commitment to oppose racism, victimisation and genocide.

Leading councillors in the Swindon borough will be discussing the programme of events for the day at a meeting on Wednesday night.

The events could include the release of two white doves by the Peace Memorial in the Old Town Gardens, readings of poetry, and a book for people to write messages.

Mike Lusty, the council's director of education and community, said: "The day will be targeted at children and young people with the emphasis on the continuing relevance of universal themes, such as respect and dignity.

"The day will undoubtedly highlight the values of universal dignity and good citizenship."