The Holocaust Centre North has received the prestigious King’s Award for Voluntary Service 2023.

Based at the University of Huddersfield, the museum tells a global history of the Holocaust through local stories of survivors and refugees. 

Many of the centre’s volunteers are first, second and third generation survivors. 

Over the years it has become more than an exhibition and learning centre, but a community for friendship and hope. 

Martin Kapel BEM, 93, who came to the UK as a child refugee on the Kindertransport, said: “It's a tribute to the spirit of service over self, and to me personally, it's an affirmation that every small act of kindness contributes to a legacy of change.

"I and other survivors of the Holocaust gathered around Holocaust Centre North because we believe that by sharing our stories of persecution, the world can grow more compassionate. This award is a celebration of community strength.”

Six representatives of Holocaust Centre North, including its director, Dr Alessandro Bucci, will receive the award crystal and certificate from the Lord-Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, Ed Anderson CBE in an awards ceremony during 2024.

Two volunteers from the centre will also attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace next summer.