Lubavitch has opened a £1.5million children’s centre in Stamford Hill. It will be home to a new nursery, offering 36 full-time places, which launches in January for youngsters between three months and five years.

Centre manager Devorah Leah Sudak said: “It’s about providing the opportunity for children to develop their own skills in a Jewish environment.”

Facilities for children and their families include a messy play area and specially designed sofas for mothers with babies. Family services include medical examinations and immunisation, advice and training.

A toy library and adult education centre have transferred to the new building, as well as the Lubavitch Central Library, stocked with 15,000 books.