Liberal Judaism is experiencing a significant increase in the take-up of Israel tours.

The 49 teenagers on its month-long summer tour, supported by five leaders, represented its highest ever turnout and a 50 per increase on numbers the previous year.

There are seven participants in the movement’s gap year scheme in Israel, the highest for some years.Liberal youth director Rebecca Fetterman said the numbers were “a real tribute to our LJY-Netzer movement workers, who have spent the past year promoting Israel tour in our communities and showing young people how it really is an inspirational and life-changing experience”.

She added: “It also proves the growing interest among young British Jews for a truly egalitarian and inclusive Israel tour that looks at all sides of the country.”

The movement says its Progressive Zionist outlook shows it is possible to be critical of  Israeli government policies while remaining supportive of the state and appreciating the positive aspects of its culture.

Liberal Judaism will also be running a Birthright tour for young people.