Around 40 people came out to inaugurate Bournemouth University’s first ever menorah which was put on display this week.

The six-foot menorah organised by Chabad of Bournemouth will remain outside the university’s main entrance throughout the festival.

Staff, residents and students in the seaside resort town gathered on the second night of Chanukah to watch vice chancellor Professor John Vinney kindle the shamash.

Local councillor Lawrence Williams was also in attendance and lit the remaining two candles. 

“There is something special about the lights of the menorah that kindle the spark in the souls of so many Jews,” said Rabbi Bentzion Alperowitz. 

“This is especially meaningful for Jewish students in Bournemouth, many who come from larger Jewish communities in London, to feel that Jewish connection even while at university.”

J-soc president Jessica Webber said that “it was so heartwarming to see Chanukah so proudly displayed at university” and expressed her gratitude to the Chabad centre. 

She also said that her campus had seen an increase in Jewish life in the last year. 

Another menorah - 25ft tall and also lit by Chabad of Bournemouth - was erected near the city’s pier this week.

The Daily Echo reported that members of the public attended in “record numbers” for the celebration.