The United Synagogue has welcomed its newest community, Hadley Wood, which has become independent after operating for 17 years as a satellite of Cockfosters and North Southgate Synagogue.

Hadley Wood vice-chairman John Melchior — a brother of former Israeli Diaspora Affairs Minister Rabbi Michael Melchior — said it was “a natural progression, like a child who has grown up. We’re ready to try things on our own.” Congregation chair Mike Singer added that Hadley Wood had “a wonderful combination of community, friendship and support”.

Now with 90 families, the community held its first service in 1995 at the home of the current US president, Stephen Pack.