Rabbi Natan Levy, who had planned to make aliyah this summer, is to remain as minister of Shenley Synagogue.

The California-born rabbi, a former Jewish chaplain at Bristol University, joined the United Synagogue congregation three years ago.

Shenley vice-chairman Natalie Sussman said that "on reflection, Rabbi Levy felt that there was more work to do at Shenley and for that reason has decided to stay on as our community rabbi.

"We are now in our 10th year, and are so pleased that our community continues to grow steadily."

Rabbi Levy will also remain head of the social responsibility unit at the London School of Jewish Studies, with a strong interest in social activism and the environment.