MEMBERS from all corners of Bolton’s diverse community gathered yesterday to commemorate the millions of victims of persecution around the globe for Genocide Memorial Day.

The Mayor of Bolton, councillors and pupils from LifeBridge and Brandwood Community Primary School joined members of numerous community groups, including Befriending Refugees and Asylum Seekers and The African Community Association Bolton, for a remembrance service in Festival Hall at the Town Hall as part of Refugee Week.

During the spiriting and thoughtful service special guests recalled their experiences of fleeing persecution including Brandwood pupil Rimsha Ali, Norbert, a member of BRASS, from Cameroon, and Perseverance Mupolo — who sang and spoke of coming to Bolton from the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Speeches were also given by the Mayor of Bolton and the Leader of Bolton Council, Councillor Linda Thomas.

Speaking during the service, Cllr Thomas said that she was glad that Bolton is one of the few towns holding events like this.

She added: "For us it difficult to imagine the sufferings of victims of genocides — the impact is unimaginable and immeasurable. Having events like today, held during the 20th anniversary of Refugee Week, helps to raise awareness about the plight of such groups which is vital.

"As a local authority there are many challenges around settling refugees in our town. We know that these people have suffered enough trauma and hardships to arrive here, so it is vital they feel safe, secure and have shelter.”

The vibrant service was animated by several musical performances and poetry readings from City of Sanctuary’s Pam Spurling, Melbourne Road Methodist Church Choir, Carl Austin and children from Brandwood Community Primary School.

And ACAB’s Noelene Gillatt gave an emotional reflective experience of her childhood in Apartheid South Africa.

Speaking after the service Bolton Wanderers Chaplain, Philip Mason, said: “It has been a very special and significant day. We have not only remembered the victims of the past but have heard about some of the incredible journeys people have undertaken in their lives to find a new home in Bolton.”