The level of French aliyah to Israel soared in the first two months of the year, according to new figures.

The Jewish Agency revealed on Sunday that 854 people had left France for Israel in January and February.

That figure was more than three times the number during the same months in 2013.

The total number of people making aliyah from France last year was 3,300 - which represented a 70 per cent increase on the previous year.

Rising antisemitism and a poor economy are thought to be fuelling the increase, with the Israeli government also offering attractive incentives to French Jews.

Israel's Immigration Absorption Ministry unveiled details earlier this year of increased tuition aid for students and job training.

An aliyah fair in Paris on Sunday was attended by thousands of people.