No society can be a healthy one where its women are excluded from the decision-making processes and deprived of their voice. These are issues for all countries and all societies, not least the Jewish community of the UK.

It’s the season of forgiveness, are we ready to forgive? It’s not always easy to let go of our resentment and bitterness towards those who have hurt us. Sometimes the scars are permanent. Can those who have suffered loss and injury in war and terrorism ever find it in their hearts to forgive? Should they even try?

It is not always easy to get in the mood for Rosh Hashanah. The sound of the shofar piercing the hush of the congregation may stir something deep within us: or we may be roused by a haunting melody from the choir. But the liturgy can seem long and difficult and ultimately leave us struggling to find the high in the High Holy Days.

Makes 2 loaf cakes

INGREDIENTS
For the cake:
250g salted butter at room temperature
125g caster sugar
3 large eggs at room temperature, lightly beaten
275g plain flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp baking soda
125g sour cream
125g runny honey

For the syrup
110g honey
40ml water

Method

Every September since Israeli cake maestro Roy Levy was lured to Britain by the Gail’s bakery empire, he finds himself in demand.