BBC TV news presenter Huw Edwards is the latest patron of the project to transform Merthyr Tydfil’s Grade II-listed former synagogue into a Welsh Jewish Heritage Centre.

The Bridgend-born broadcaster is passionate about the culture and heritage of his native land and is an advocate for the upkeep and restoration of Welsh places of worship.

In 2012, he presented a six-part documentary on The Story of Wales and he has also fronted a series on the South Wales valleys.

The Merthyr project is being undertaken by the Foundation for Jewish Heritage, which purchased the building in 2019 and has since carried out urgent repairs.

Last year, a detailed business plan for the heritage centre was prepared. An application for funding was made to the National Lottery Heritage Fund this February with a decision expected at the end of June.

Huw Edwards told the JC: “I feel honoured to be a patron of this exciting project to preserve and bring back into use the striking Grade II-listed Victorian synagogue in Merthyr Tydfil, which is an important Welsh landmark building.”

Foundation chief executive Michael Mail was “delighted” to have the broadcaster on board. “He is a leading personality in Wales — and indeed across the UK — and a major champion of Welsh culture and the cause of heritage preservation.

“This is a major boost to our efforts to save Merthyr synagogue and bring the building back into use to serve the local community and wider Welsh society.”

Sir Michael Moritz and David Baddiel are also patrons of the project.