Although Mitzvah Day is officially on Sunday, two of the UK’s biggest synagogues got in early.

Harrow Mayor Councillor Nitin Parekh was among the guests at Stanmore United, where the shul hall was a hive of activity with craft tables and a tea for local seniors. A group of volunteers provided the entertainment, performing Abba songs with the lyrics amended to fit Jewish themes.

Organiser Juliette Harris said: “We always find it such a worthwhile project to be involved with. The morning saw members of the community bring in donations for all our linked charities — from Gift to the National Animal Welfare Trust. Meanwhile, soup was being made for [homeless charity] Firm Foundation and the front garden was spruced up. It was fantastic to see everyone so happy.”

At Bushey United, volunteers tidied and tended the gardens at a local hospice, made poppies for the Royal British Legion, collected items for the needy and decorated and delivered cakes to a local Jewish Care home.