Rabbi Alan Garber will be returning to the UK from Australia to take up the Shenley Synagogue pulpit.

Shenley members unanimously supported the appointment of the minister and his wife Tanya on Sunday, and the Garbers are expected to start work before the High Holy-Days.

The rabbi grew up in Kenton and is a Leeds University graduate. After spending two years in marketing, he studied in Israel, coming back to work at the Jewish Learning Exchange, Kisharon and Noam Primary School. He studied for his semicha in Gateshead and his first appointment was as a university chaplain.

Rabbi Garber then moved to Sydney, his wife’s homeland, to become associate minister of the Great Synagogue. His responsibilities there have been wide-ranging.

The couple’s plans for Shenley include holding “warm and welcoming” services, innovative educational schemes and social activities for all age groups.

“We are looking forward to helping this young and vibrant community grow,” Rabbi Garber said.