Remembering Hughes Mansions A Memorial plaque to those who died on 27th March 1945 Hughes Mansions in Vallance Road was struck by a V2 rocket in 1945 and many Jewish residents were amongst the dead and injured. Later, Nelson Street Synagogue was crowded to hear speakers representing faiths and organisations from across the borough explain what H.M.D. meant for them. It was especially moving to hear Aushwitz survivor Vera Forster describe in plain matter of fact tones her dreadful experiences in Nazi Germany. The afternoon ended with the singing of Die Partizaner, the recitation of the prayer El Maleh Rachamim (God full of mercy), the blowing of the shofar and the lighting of the memorial candles. For scenes from the day click below: |