Newcastle community members joined students from Newcastle, Northumbria and Durham universities at a Friday night dinner to welcome the first dedicated north-east Jewish student chaplain, Rabbi Mati Kos, and his wife Vanessa.
University Jewish Chaplaincy chief executive Ian Kamiel says the appointment is a timely one, given the growing Jewish student population. The official recognition by Durham University of Rabbi Kos as a student chaplain is considered a major step forward.
The Polish-born rabbi has been active in Jewish life for 20 years after a career as a currency trader. He said he and his wife were "really looking forward to giving support and being part of students' lives."
To get more from community, click here to sign up for our free community newsletter.