Hendon United Synagogue has appointed a new associate rabbinic couple who will serve the shul on Shabbat, one other day per week and the festivals.

Rabbi Zvi and Orly Portnoy, who join the congregation in September, have spent the past six years at Loughton Federation Synagogue.

Prior to that, Rabbi Portnoy studied in Jerusalem. He holds a BSc in psychology and counselling and a Master’s in Jewish education. He is also a trainee psychotherapist at Tavistock NHS Trust. The rebbetzen teaches GCSE and A-level maths at Hasmonean Boys’ School and tutors privately.

The couple are excited to be joining "a wonderful community recognised across Anglo-Jewry for its warmth and inclusivity as well as excellent religious, educational and social events”.

Senior rabbi Mordechai Ginsbury looked forward to working with "a really high calibre, warm, intelligent, dynamic, caring and learned couple who will take our community yet further forward”.