There was art with a heart at Marble Arch Synagogue for a Valentine's event supporting Ilan, caring for the handicapped in Israel.

Organised as a relaunch by Ilan's British Friends in association with the Ben Uri Gallery, it featured an auction of art by Ilan clients, raising nearly £12,000. A further £8,000 was generated by the sale of three works donated by Ben Uri artists.

The 120 guests were addressed by Ilan chairman Ehud Rassabi on the work of the charity at its 41 centres and schools, providing assistance to the handicapped from birth to the grave. As well as praising Ilan, Israeli Ambassador Ron Prosor spoke about negative media coverage of Israel.

In total, almost £30,000 was raised for Ilan's artists and day centres and Ben Uri's Art as Therapy programme in London.

Friends' chair Lawrence Harding said the previous committee had disbanded because of age and infirmity.

"The previous group raised substantial funds and it would be tragic to let its efforts wither and die. There is a new day centre being built in Haifa and it was felt that we should align ourselves with this project. Ilan last year won the Israel Prize, awarded to the best run and most worthy Israeli charity."