Another United synagogue, Welwyn Garden City Hebrew Congregation, has decided to switch from affiliate to full member US status.

Eighty-six per cent of those at a special meeting supported the move, which has to be ratified by the US Council.

Welcoming the vote, Welwyn chair Tim Cole said the time was right “to further our development, working closely with the US and enjoying the many benefits that come with being a full member community”.

In an earlier to letter to members of the Hertfordshire congregation, Mr Cole wrote that it had previously been the accepted wisdom that affiliated status was the best option. Now “full constituent member synagogues have access to a wide range of services, support and funding. As an affiliate we receive very little.”

Reserves could be depleted rapidly if membership did not grow. But the US had committed support “as long as we continue to hold regular Shabbat and festival services”.

As a full US member, it would also benefit from head office assistance in its search for a new rabbi.

Mr Cole also noted the US’s investment in community development in Welwyn/Hatfield, “which they believe will become a new Jewish centre”.

Welwyn’s move leaves just six remaining affiliated communities.