A party of 120 students from a UK Jewish school have visited an organisation dedicated to protecting Jewish-owned properties in Israel from attackers.

The year nine students, from Yavneh College, Borehamwood, went to HaShomer HaChadash in Israel as part of a trip organised by JNF UK. The UK charity has been supporting the Israeli group since 2011.

“Farmers and ranchers throughout the north and south of Israel are in a constant battle to protect their land from criminal infiltrators”, the group’s website states.

“Abandoning this land would be a historic and strategic loss for the Jewish nation. HaShomer HaChadash seeks to prevent this calamity by educating thousands of people on the spiritual, historic and strategic value of the physical land of Israel.

“People today, especially our youth, are disconnected from the land, unaware of its spiritual and physical significance to Israel's past and her future. By educating today's youth and our future generations, we create a deep connection to our

Samuel Hayek, JNF UK’s Chairman said, "JNF UK has been supporting this trip for the last three years because we believe in connecting Jewish youth to Israel, as well as supporting essential projects in Israel which advance Israeli society.

“By introducing young British Jews to organisations like HaShomer HaChadash, which are vital for Israel’s continued survival and spiritual and ideological growth, JNF UK is ensuring that the bond between the diaspora and the State of Israel remains strong and healthy for the future."