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A sign of the times as pub becomes Elstree Shtiebel

November 29, 2012 13:52

By

Jay Grenby,

Jay Grenby

1 min read

Drivers passing the former Artichoke pub on Elstree Hill North might well have cause for a double-take.

For, although a pub sign remains, it now depicts a tallit-draped Jew, as befits the conversion of the historic hostelry into the Elstree Shtiebel.

Acquired just over a year ago by communal philanthropist Mendel Tajtelbaum, the site will offer facilities for prayer and education for families from the locality and beyond.

The retention of the pub signs — another now promoting Torah, prayer and kindness — reflects Mr Tajtelbaum’s determination both to preserve the character of the building and make it a hub for Yiddishkeit in the area. Locals have received an invitation to a Chanucah party in its grounds on December 9.