Sir Bernard Zissman opens 'Auschwitz-Birkenau – 65 Years On'

02 February 2010

A Holocaust photographic exhibition has been opened by Sir Bernard Zissman, former Lord Mayor of Birmingham. Sir Bernard is a key figure behind an £8 million plan to develop the Arboretum, part of The Royal British Legion group of charities, into a world-class centre of Remembrance.

The exhibition 'Auschwitz-Birkenau – 65 Years On' supports Holocaust Memorial Day's theme of 'The Legacy of Hope'. The images, on display in the Arboretum's Long Gallery until 12 February, commemorate the 65th anniversary of the liberation of the camps. They were taken by Lichfield-based photographers Robert Yardley and John Crowe during a visit in October 2009.

Visitors to the Holocaust exhibition can also take the opportunity to see the tree dedicated to diarist Anne Frank, who died in the Bergen-Belsen camp aged fifteen. Symbolising the taking of a young life, her haunting tree at the Arboretum has its blossoms removed before they bloom.

Commenting on the exhibition, Sir Bernard said: "The photographers have captured, through their lenses and their skill, the atmosphere of what can only be described as hell on earth – the infamous Auschwitz concentration camp. They bring to each of us, 65 years after its liberation, the haunting memory of this dreadful place."

Auschwitz Gates

Lynne Barkas, NMA events officer, said: "The Arboretum is a wonderfully fitting and moving place in which to remember victims of the Holocaust. Our 160 plus memorials have given the site national importance and it has become a true focal point for Remembrance."

Admission to the Arboretum and the exhibition is free, but donations are appreciated. The Arboretum is open every day from 9am to 5pm (or dusk if earlier).