Hull Hebrew Congregation is the latest regional community to become a United Synagogue constituent member after the US Council unanimously approved the move this week.

Discussions between the parties had been ongoing for some time but a formal decision was delayed by the pandemic.

Hull Jewry has a rich history exceeding 250 years. From the turn of the 1900s thousands of Jews fleeing oppression in Eastern Europe arrived at the Yorkshire coastal port. Some settled locally, others journeying onwards to Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool, or beyond the UK to America and Canada.

Down the years, Hull Orthodox community members have figured prominently in the city’s commercial and civic life, accounting for seven lord mayors.

As numbers dwindled, Hull Hebrew Congregation was formed in 1994 by the amalgamation of the former Orthodox synagogues. It currently has some 100 members, around 70 of whom live locally.

Its spiritual needs are served by Rabbi Eli and Sorele Denderowicz, who commute from their Gateshead home for Shabbat and festivals.

Hull Hebrew Congregation president Philip Daniels saw huge benefits in “the mutual support of being part of a network of communities. How the United Synagogue can assist us has become increasingly evident as discussions regarding our joining have progressed. The Hull community anticipates a positive future within the US.”

US president Michael Goldstein was “delighted” to welcome its new recruit. “Hull has a long and proud Jewish history dating back to the 18th century. We look forward to learning from and working with Hull Hebrew Congregation as they begin their exciting new chapter.”