MEMBERS of the Wharfedale branch of Amnesty International met on Saturday at the Amnesty plot in Darwin Gardens to mark 60 years since the organization was founded. Candles were lit as members gathered round the Amnesty symbol at the centre of the plot, created 20 years ago by Sylvia Mann and Ian Hobson. The idea of Amnesty, founded in 1961 by Peter Benenson, a British lawyer, was simple but completely new. Ordinary people could come together to put pressure on the powerful to stop torture and persecution, to help secure the release of those unjustly imprisoned. Chair Rosemary Hoyle said: “Prisoners have been released or saved from execution: the plight of minorities and human rights defenders has come to the attention of the world. Sometimes the only hope for powerless people is that human rights organisations, such as Amnesty will support them. The commitment of the group here has been astounding - thanks so much.” The group welcomes members and supporters. Meetings are still on Zoom but it is hoped to get back together soon. Contact:ed_carne@blueyonder.co.uk.