Ilford Federation Synagogue members paid an emotional farewell to their Coventry Road premises on Shabbat, the last before the shul moves to a new home in the former Dennis Centre in Beehive Lane.

In his final sermon at Coventry Road, Rabbi Alex Chapper said the decision to move after 50 years had been momentous, brave — and correct. Among the congregation was long-time member Phil Keen, who was presented with a framed certificate to mark his 100th birthday.

The new premises are around 200 yards from Ilford United Synagogue in Beehive Lane.
The two synagogues had merger discussions for a number of years but could not reach agreement.