Topics ranging from asylum seekers to the plight of traumatised young Israelis living on the Gaza border were discussed at the first Birmingham area day Limmud, which attracted a turnout of almost 200.

Given that the Limmud was held in the education suite of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, medical matters were also covered, as were traditional favourites such as food, art, literature and music. The finale was a concert featuring violinist and local rabbi Lior Kaminetsky, Elly Stanton, Nairmi Rowe, Lee Benson and the Kol Kinor choir.

The day was initiated by the area's Jewish Representative Council as part of its ongoing efforts to showcase the community.

"Lots of hard work went into this which was reflected in the success of the day," said Rabbi Yossi Jacobs of Birmingham's Singers Hill congregation.