The United Synagogue has welcomed the lifting of the cap on wedding attendances – albeit with dancing still prohibited - announced by Boris Johnson on Monday. And there was further positive news on numbers at stone-settings, with the attendance limit increased to 50.

US chief executive Steven Wilson was “very pleased that couples will be able to celebrate their wedding from June 21 with more family and friends. Many of them have already been forced to postpone their big day a number of times.

“The government has said that the number of people who can attend will now be determined by how many people a venue can safely accommodate with social distancing measures in place, including guests of all ages and anyone working at the event.”

Dr Wilson urged couples to liaise with their wedding venue but stressed: “The government has said that dancefloors will sadly have to remain closed. We know weddings are not the same without dancing but we recognise the government’s desire to keep guests and staff safe and we are pleased the couple will still be able to enjoy a first dance together, should they wish.”

There was also relief “that our KLBD caterers can now carry out larger wedding functions. They - together with the hospitality industry - have had an incredibly difficult time over the pandemic and we wish them all the very best for the coming weeks and months.”

The 50 limit for stone-settings will be in line with the number the US now allows at funerals “to help more family and friends attend. Ceremonies will continue to take place outside to reduce the risk of transmission among guests.”