New West End Synagogue members have voted overwhelmingly for the appointment of Rabbi Dr Moshe Freedman and his wife, Ilana, as their new ministerial couple. Rabbi Freedman succeeds Rabbi Geoffrey Shisler, who will retire later in the year.

Born in Kingston, the rabbi gained degrees in medical electronics and medical physics before taking five years of Jewish studies in Israel. He has served Northwood Synagogue since 2009. The rebbetzen attended seminaries in Jerusalem and teaches biology at the Hasmonean High School.

"We are deeply blessed to have the opportunity to serve such a delightfully warm and friendly community in one of the most beautiful synagogues in the world," Rabbi Freedman said. "The community is legendary for maintaining an exceptional musical tradition, matched only by the grandeur of the building. We will, however, miss our many friends in Northwood."

New West End chair Henry Magrill was "absolutely delighted to have attracted a rabbinic couple of such outstanding quality. We look forward with great anticipation to welcoming them early in 2015."

Opened in 1879, the synagogue is one of the oldest in the UK and one of three whose buildings are Grade I listed.