Southport Hebrew Congregation has become a constituent member of the United Synagogue following a vote on Monday by the US Council.

Discussions with the seaside community have been ongoing for some time but the vote had been put on hold because of the pandemic.

Southport’s senior warden Adrian Fletcher said the 80-member congregation was “thrilled” at the decision. “Southport Hebrew Congregation has a long and proud history and we know that with the support of the United Synagogue, our future is secure.

“A new vigour has appeared among our members now that there is a real prospect for our longevity.”

There has been a Jewish presence in Southport since the mid-19th century, attracted by the town’s prosperity. The first Orthodox synagogue was consecrated by the then Chief Rabbi, Dr Hermann Adler, in 1893.

In 1926, a magnificent Orthodox shul was built and the community continued to thrive over the next 50 years.

Community infrastructure included a local kashrut commission, care home, youth clubs and Masonic lodges. In its heyday, more than 120 children were enrolled in its cheder.

Even with its much reduced numbers, the shul can still rely on a dedicated group of volunteers to run communal affairs and a rota of ministers to lead services every week.

Before the pandemic, the shul had never missed a Friday evening or Shabbat morning service.

Welcoming Southport to the fold, US president Michael Goldstein said that “throughout the process, we have been struck by the community’s warmth and commitment to Yiddishkeit.

“I’m also looking forward to visiting the community when conditions allow and spending a wonderful Shabbat on the coast to experience for myself Southport’s renowned warm welcome.”