Ten Holocaust Survivors recognised by Queen in New Year's Honours

TEN HOLOCAUST survivors have been honoured by the Queen for their work in spreading awareness about the horrors of the Nazi era.

Zigi Shipper, Susan Pollack, Ivor Perl, Lilly Ebert, Chaim Ferster, Jack Kagan, Freddie Knoller, Rudy Oppenheimer, Rene Salt and Agnes Grunwald-Spier are all included in the New Year’s Honours List at the end of a year of commemorations for the 70th anniversary of liberation.

Freddie Knoller, 93, who was born in Vienna in 1921, talks of his memories of the Jewish Holocaust at a centre for victims in north London.

The group have told their stories in thousands of schools, played key roles in supporting Holocaust Memorial Day and written books about the darkest chapter in recent human history – so the lessons of the Shoah live on.

Pollock, who survived Auschwitz but lost her parents, said: “I have been honoured as part of a dedicated team who woek to strengthen our eesolve for a fairer, safer future, and to learn lessons from the Holocaust and more recent genocides.” She has recalled her experiences in schools and at public events for three decades and testified at the trial of Oskar Groening alongside Perl, who added: “I’ve received much good news in my life but this must top it all.”

Karen Pollock, chief executive of the Holocaust Educational Trust, expressed delight at the news of the honours for such “inspirational men and women. Thousands of lives have been changed because of the tireless bravery of these remarkable people”.

HET nominated many of the survivors, as did the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust. Chief executive Olivia Marks-Woldman said: “The Queen has embodied the welcome they found here in Britain, where they came to rebuild their lives.” She added the awards recognise the contribution of all survivors to the UK and honour the memory of those who perished.

Anita Zabludowicz Picture - David Bebber — Anita Zabludowicz
Picture – David Bebber

Meanwhile, Limmud founder Clive Lawton is awarded an OBE for services to the Jewish community and former AJEX chairman Jeffrey Fox, who also serves as honorary secretary to Jewish Committee for HM Forces, received an MBE.

Philanthropist Anita Zabludowitz can also look forward to a visit to the Palace after being recognised for services to the arts. Along with husband Poju, she has a long track record of supporting institutions including the Tate and Camden Arts Centre.

She said: “I’m delighted and surprised to receive this honour. It inspires me to continue working for arts and culture in the UK.” Also, philanthropist Jack Petchey becomes Sir Jack for services to young people in east London and Essex, including his work with the JLGB.

Meanwhile, it’s been announced that BBC2 will screen the main Holocaust Memorial Day event on 27 January.