A family affair for Bnei Akiva

Bnei Akiva ran a Yom Hazikaron/Yom Ha'atzmaut event for the whole community on Monday at Finchley Synagogue where the 1,300 guests included Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks and Israeli envoy Ron Prosor.

Lord Sacks spoke movingly about how the world needed to recognise Israel's achievements as a free and democratic country. Chazan Jonny Turgel led the service and movement director Michael Rainsbury also addressed the gathering. Following the service, Bachad (Friends of Bnei Akiva) held its annual dinner for more than 260 people. There was also an Israeli-style dinner and dancing for hundreds of movement members.

"It was a truly remarkable and inspirational evening," Mr Rainsbury said. "Bnei Akiva is leading the way in support for Israel." Another 250 people attended the Bnei Akiva party in Manchester.