Manchester’s Holy Law South Broughton Synagogue is reducing capacity in the cause of long-term growth.

Supported by £10,000 in Lottery funding, Holy Law will be removing the back seven rows of seating from one side of the shul to provide a soundproofed space for youth activity.

“If you want to grow your membership, you have to involve youth,” said the shul’s Neville Gouldman. “It makes such a difference.”

With TV and table football, the area could be used for socialising, as well as a study space or for religious activity.

Holy Law has seen a significant influx of families over the past five years. “It’s good we have an active membership,” Mr Gouldman added. “We get 150 to 200 people on Shabbat.”