The Community Security Trust has raised well over £3.5 million from a digital fundraising drive, smashing its initial target in under 24 hours. 

Its appeal, Together We Protect, attracted more than 6,200 donations, with a group of donors matching all contributions.

The charity, which protects communities and monitors antisemitism, has said it needs to raise £2 million annually each year to continue its work.

Dame Margaret Hodge, broadcaster Eamonn Holmes and actresses Maureen Lipman and Tracy-Ann Oberman were among the appeal supporters. 

Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis praised the CST’s “professional and selfless manner”. Metropolitan Police assistant commissioner Neil Basu said it had been a “fundamental partner” in the fight against hate crime and terrorism. 

CEO Mark Gardner said it had been “fantastic to see the support for CST from across our British Jewish community.

“Together We Protect isn’t just a campaign slogan - it’s also the reality of how CST and all our community works, with everyone in it together.”