More than £1 million was raised for UJIA's work from dinners in Manchester and Harrogate, the latter addressed by military expert and Israel supporter Colonel Richard Kemp.

"The time has come for us to stand up for our own values, for our civilisation and for our way of life," he said - "and to stand up for the state of Israel which is at the forefront of our struggle.

"All of us in this room care deeply about the people of Israel. Our stand is vital. But what is even more vital is that such a stand is made also by future generations. There is no better way of helping to ensure Israel continues to receive vital support from the UK than by giving the strongest possible backing to the UJIA and its Israel engagement work with young people here."

At the following evening's Manchester dinner, Miri Eisin - a former Israeli intelligence officer and spokesperson for the prime minister - discussed the different narratives within the Israel-Palestinian conflict.

The dinner menus showcased "Israeli street food" and the entertainment on both evenings was from comedian and actor Elon Gold.

Eldan Kaye, UJIA's regional director, was "humbled by the support from the communities of the north".