A new Masorti group in Bournemouth has held its first services in the homes of supporters.

Around 30 people attended a service last Friday night and a weekly programme is envisaged, alternating between erev Shabbat and Shabbat gatherings.

Another event saw senior Masorti rabbi Jonathan Wittenberg address potential supporters at a local hotel on “Being a Masorti Jew”. His talk prompted a lively question-and-answer session.

Organisers Adrian Yonace and Stephanie Knifeld have been “pleasantly surprised by the response we have had and by the way it’s progressing. The most important thing is to get the service structure in place and that is what we are concentrating on.”

A November Shabbaton and a Chanucah celebration are also planned.