THE victims of 'honour-based' killings will be remembered today, Friday, as part of the third Shafilea Ahmed Day.

The memorial day was set up after the teenager was murdered at the hands of her parents.

Today would have been her 31st birthday but Shafilea was killed after suffering years of ‘honour-based’ violence by those who were meant to love and protect her.

The Great Sankey High School pupil was killed in 2003 after her parents believed she had brought shame on the family.

The 17-year-old was suffocated to death in front of her siblings.

To raise awareness of ‘honour-based’ killing, a national day of memory was set up by Karma Nirvana.

Jasvinder Sanghera, chief executive of the charity, said: “Every year we use this day as an opportunity to raise the national profile of victims who have been murdered because of ‘honour-based’ abuse.

“Every year we cut a birthday cake for Shafilea and this year will be no different.

“But this year we are also looking at children and young people who are at risk because of the summer holidays as they could be taken abroad and forced into marriage.”

Jasvinder, who is a survivor of a forced marriage, has urged people to show their support.

Alex Lewis-Jones, who is the founder of In Memory of Shafilea Ahmed, is also calling for schools across Warrington to be vigilant to help those who are risk of forced marriage. 

He said: “Shafilea’s story is the reality of so many who need that support to have the courage to speak out. 

“No-one can be subjected to harrowing campaigns of violence. 

“What happened to her is the devastating reality of those murdered by their families to protect their so-called honour. With collective action we can break the chains of this slavery.”

If you know someone who is a victim of an 'honour-based' crime or at risk of being forced into a marriage call Cheshire Police on 101.

If a crime is taking place or there is a danger to life dial 999 immediately.