Wessex Liberal Jewish Community has celebrated the 90th birthdays of mainstays Nat and Joan Roseman.
Mr Roseman is the growing congregation’s main lay leader, taking services when no rabbi is available.
His wife delivered the dvar Torah before the scroll reading at a special service for her birthday and the couple marked their combined 180th with a party for their far-flung family, most of whom were able to attend.
Brought up in Orthodox synagogues, the couple met in London through a mutual friend and married in 1955.
They have lived in South-West London and Leeds, where they and their two sons were involved in Sinai (Reform) Synagogue and hosted a monthly bible reading group.
They moved to Bournemouth a few years before Mr Roseman retired from his job as a business consultant, attracted initially by its Reform synagogue, local orchestral performances and “manageable” property prices.
Mr Roseman lectured at the local university until the age of 74. His wife also retired late from her role as a freelance translator.
They were involved in the establishment of the Wessex Liberal community, which has grown in eight years to more than 80 members, with a significant number actively engaged.
“Being involved in this community is such a positive experience for both of us,” the Rosemans say.
“We receive such support and friendship from members of Wessex and are delighted to contribute to its activities.”