The closure of the main kosher deli in Leeds has been described as “a tremendous blow” to the community.

When taking over Moortown Deli in 2016, Leon Davidson said he wanted to attract locals who bought their kosher supplies from supermarkets, or from Manchester outlets.

Despite keeping prices in line with kosher stores in London and Manchester, the deli has struggled for a while.

The JC understands that a plan to revitalise the business foundered when a major backer withdrew support.

“It is a tremendous blow for the Leeds Jewish community to lose Moortown Deli,” said Rabbi Jason Kleiman of Beth Hamidrash Hagadol Synagogue.

“My heart goes out to all those who have tried to make it work.

“I am confident that alternative measures will be in place for the community to place their Pesach orders.”

Rabbi Daniel Levy, the former minister of the city’s United Hebrew Congregation, said: “Kosher shops have long felt the pinch with superstores providing ever increasing ranges of kosher food. It has been hard to keep afloat, let alone compete.

“Leeds still has a kosher butcher and some new shoppers may very well gravitate there and purchase fresh and dry kosher foods. Or are they going to wait for that to close too, and then say ‘what a pity’?”

Mr Davidson was unavailable for comment.