The father of Gilad Shalit - the Israeli soldier who was held by Hamas for five years - is among international speakers announced for the Limmud Festival in Birmingham at the end of December.

Social activitist Noam Shalit led the "Free Gilad" campaign which maintained support and awareness among the Israeli public.

Other overseas guests include educator Racheli Fraenkel, who became an international speaker and activist after her son Naftali and two other Israeli teens were kidnapped and murdered in 2014.

Iraqi-Israeli musician Yair Dalal and Jessica Montell, director of Israeli human rights NGO HaMoked, are also among the presenters' line-up.

“We are incredibly excited that this year’s programme is made up of such a remarkable collection of presenters from across the UK and the world, each with something interesting to share,” said festival co-chair Abi Jacobi. “With such a range of great sessions on offer, we’re sure every participant will find a Jewish journey perfect for them.”