A week in Israel is the centrepiece of a United Synagogue programme for newlywed couples.

Created as part of the US Living and Learning strategy, the inaugural programme will be open to 12 couples under the age of 35 in their first year of marriage.

The Israel trip complements learning sessions on key aspects of the Jewish home and involvement in the couples' local communities. Successful applicants will be asked for a £250 contribution towards the cost.

"The first year of marriage is recognised in Judaism as a very special year in which couples start to build the foundations of their Jewish home," explained the Living and Learning director, Rabbi Andrew Shaw.

"We have created this programme to help newly married couples build their future as a key part of their local community."