A MEMORIAL service for victims of the Holocaust was at the centre of a row today after a wreath laid by British National Party councillors was removed.

Almost 30 people, including several councillors and a Second World War Holocaust survivor, have signed an open letter protesting at the attendance of two of the town's BNP representatives at the event in Burnley's Peace Garden, in Parker Lane.

The group claim they were "shocked and horrified" when Terry Grogan and Carole Hughes turned up.

But Burnley BNP spokesperson Simon Bennett today said the removal of the wreath was in "poor taste". He said the party was planning to leave a new tribute at the site.

Mr Bennett said: "Terry and Carole were asked by people in their wards to attend and did so to pay their respects. It is a shame that the people who have signed this letter are trying to make political capital out of the event. That, and the fact that our wreath has been removed from the Peace Garden, is in very poor taste.

"The Holocaust was an horrific event. We have had characters associated with the party in the past who have said it may not have happened but that is not my view."

The BNP councillors, who represent Gannow and Lowerhouse and Rosegrove, joined other civic dignitaries as well as Holocaust survivors, police and fire at the service on Sunday and laid a wreath of white lilies. Schoolchildren and members of the Burnley Sea Cadet Corps were also present.

The open letter, signed by leader of the council Stuart Caddy, said: "We the undersigned are shocked and horrified at the insult made by the British National Party Burnley councillors to the memory of the six million Jews and five million others murdered by the Nazis under Hitler's Germany.

"Holocaust Memorial Day is about remembering this darkest period in our history and saying "never again" to the horrors."

It added: "Hitler scapegoated Jewish people and today the BNP blame asylum seekers, black and Asian people for the problems that exist in our society.

Coun Paul Moore said: "This is an insult to the memory of the people who suffered and died.".

Coun Thornber added: "I have handed in an open letter signed by local councillors, members of the public and a holocaust survivor."

Sunday's ceremony was one of hundreds held across Europe, including Blackburn, to remember the tragedy of the people who died during the holocaust and to re-affirm their commitment to a firm and just society.

After readings by Burnley's Mayor, councillor Gordon Birtwistle, the town's MP, Peter Pike and representatives of the Christian and Muslim faiths, wreaths were laid.