Belsize Square Synagogue’s cantor, Paul Heller, missed the congregation’s Pesach services to return to his native Colombia. He wanted be with his family following the murder of his nephew, Steven, who was stabbed protecting his girlfriend.

Mr Heller said that Steven and his girlfriend, Laura, were hiking to an eco-village on the outskirts of Bogota when they were set upon.

“My nephew feared that the attackers were not only after their bikes and belongings but were also probably going to kidnap them or rape his girlfriend. He became very nervous and shouted for help and was then stabbed. Laura was taken up in the woods and tied up. She was able to loosen herself hours later and found Steven dead. He protected her with his life.”

Belsize Square choirmaster Ben Wolf said Mr Heller had the congregation’s sympathy. “Everyone’s been very understanding and supportive. They see that there are things more important than leading services.”