Muslim women attended UK shuls over Succot in a show of solidarity with the Jewish community in the aftermath of the attempted attack on the Halle synagogue in Germany.

The women, many accompanied by their daughters and other family members, were responding to an initiative led by Nisa-Nashim, the women’s network which brings together Jews and Muslims.

Those who attended Alyth Reform in Golders Green had travelled from as far afield as Stafford. Rabbi Hannah Kingston, who greeted the visitors, said shul members were “deeply touched to see so much support from our Muslim neighbours after the atrocity in Halle”. They should consider Alyth “as a place where they are always welcome”.

As well as learning about the festival, the Muslim women engaged in some of its rituals, including shaking the lulav and holding the etrog. They also enjoyed a tour of the synagogue.

Nisa-Nashim trustee Ahmereen Rezza said the experience was “a first for me. But I live around the corner and felt compelled to be here to show that, as a Muslim, I will not stand by when Jewish people are threatened, particularly in their place of worship.”

Laura Marks, a Nisa-Nashim co-founder, added that “the warmth, friendship and love in that chilly succah ensured that we all went home fortified and determined to stay close”.

Maidenhead was among other shuls which welcomed Muslim visitors.