An 83-year-old Holocaust survivor is to describe his experiences of life during the Second World War under Nazi occupation and his incarceration in concentration camps with Hertfordshire pupils.

Zigi (Zygmunt) Shipper, born in Poland and now living in Bushey, will share what life was like in Auschwitz-Birkenau at Hertfordshire SACRE’s annual Holocaust Memorial Day Commemoration on January 24.

Mr Shipper, who works tirelessly travelling around the country promoting acceptance, tolerance and anti-racism through his talks, will join upper primary and secondary pupils from several Hertfordshire schools for the event which will incorporate readings, art and music.

Teacher Ellie Olmer, from Little Reddings Primary School in Bushey, has written a short drama based on this year’s HMD theme, "Communities Together: Build a Bridge", which will be performed at the event.

She has written the piece by drawing on her Jewish roots and family experience of the holocaust.

Pupils, teachers, parents and invited guests, including county councillors will be asked to honour those communities destroyed in the Holocaust, under Nazi persecution and in subsequent genocides in communities across the world.

Mr Shipper said: "It was because of a bridge built between Holocaust survivors and the community in Britain that I am here to pass on my story today.

"In recognition of that, I continue to tell my story to young and old so that the experiences of those who did not survive, as well as those who did, are not forgotten, and I will keep doing it as long as I live."

The event will also mark the 68th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz and takes place at Bushey Meads School, Coldharbour Lane, Bushey from 6pm.