THE impact of the Holocaust on children will be put under the spotlight later this month in the North-East.

In the 1930s, a series of Nazi laws were aimed at removing the civil and economic rights of Jews and other groups, including political opponents and the disabled.

These resulted in the deaths of 1.5million children across Europe, as they were defined as a threat to German society.

On Monday, January 27, an event in the council chamber at Newcastle Civic Centre will not only remember those who suffered during the Second World War, but will also demonstrate a public commitment to opposing all ongoing discrimination and atrocities which deny people of their civil and human rights.

The city council's own commemoration, beginning at 7pm, will include readings, reflection and a specially prepared programme by The Young Sinfonia, the youth orchestra of Northern Sinfonia.

The city's first major event to mark Holocaust Memorial Day this year is a memorial lecture, in the council chamber at 7pm on Wednesday.

Guest speakers will be Paula Kitching, of the London Jewish Cultural Centre, and Maureen McCann, regional development officer for the Refugee Council.

Both events are free and open to the public. For tickets or further information telephone 0191-232 8520 extension 25121.