Hatfield celebrates ‘biggest ever’ Jewish gathering

Chair Sabrina Lee said: “It was fantastic to see around 100 attendees at the Hatfield Shabbaton. This is a true reflection of our rapidly expanding community…. The turnout and spirit of the Shabbaton showed just how vibrant, welcoming and united our community has become.

"It is exciting to witness the continued growth of the Hatfield Jewish Community, and I can’t wait to see our community continue to flourish.”

One participant said afterwards that it was the first time they had taken part in a Havdalah service and found themselves humming the tune in the days that followed.

Hatfield old town in Hertfordshire (Photo: Getty)Getty Images

In 2017, Hatfield was identified as “a community of potential” by the United Synagogue as it began to attract more Jewish residents, due to its picturesque surroundings, good transport links and more affordable housing than areas such as Borehamwood and Edgware.

While Hatfield doesn’t yet have its own synagogue building, it takes a “people-centred” approach, with community members who organise weekly events like a Sunday cheder and Shabbat dinners at the homes of local families.

The community’s website has information on which kosher delis are able to deliver to Hatfield and which supermarkets stock kosher produce, and the rebbetzin at Hatfield Chabad, which opened last summer, makes and sells challah.

Jonny Ison, community development manager at the United Synagogue, said: “The community began with its first information event in 2017, and this Shabbaton is an incredible reflection of its growth and strength…It created opportunities to meet new people, reconnect with friends and strengthen relationships. The weekend was filled with warmth, conversation and a strong sense of togetherness.”

For more information on the Hatfield Jewish Community, contact Jonny Ison at the United Synagogue.