Eighteen months later than originally planned, Rabbi Yanky Abrams celebrated his inauguration as Loughton Synagogue minister in front of an audience including Federation leaders.

Rabbi Abrams joined the Essex congregation in 2019 after serving Woodford Forest United Synagogue as assistant minister.

He said members had “responded with great kindness, friendship and support” during difficult times.

The rabbi and his wife Rochel have established a number of initiatives, notably the delivery by shul volunteers of 150 Shabbat meals to congregants every Friday.

They have also re-energised the Loughton cheder with 40 children now attending.

Shul chair Gary Stern credited the couple with having “transformed the community into a vibrant and engaged centre of Jewish life”.