Shabbat is delayed for Blue Peter crew

Before attending the “Shabbat” service, he and the BBC film crew visited the home of Edgware minister Rabbi David Lister and his wife Rachie.

There, they filmed a reconstruction of the family’s preparations for Shabbat and the traditional Friday night meal.

At the shul, the congregation performed “edited highlights of the Friday night service”, Rabbi Lister explained. “There was quite a big turnout and the atmosphere was very jolly.”

What Defries took from the experience will be revealed when the segment is broadcast.

But Rabbi Lister stressed: “It is very important that we seize this kind of opportunity to portray Judaism for what it is — something happy and inspiring and with a message for the wider world.”