The Zionist Federation (ZF) has elected its first female president, after the death of Professor Eric Moonman last month.

Estelle Gilston, a former chair of the ZF, has served as a vice-president of the organisation for the past five years. She was chosen by members and member organisations to fill the vacant position at the ZF’s mid-term conference earlier this week. The life president of the Sha’arei Tsedek Reform Synagogue in Whetstone, North London, Mrs Gilston represents Pro-Zion (the Progressive Zionist movement) on the ZF’s National Council.

Professor Moonman, a former Labour and SDP politician, was a highly respected academic and pro-Israel activist. Mrs Gilson, who worked together with Professor Moonman for many years, said that he had “left some very large shoes to fill.

“I look forward to taking on the role with his voice of reason constantly in my mind.”

Paul Charney, chairman of the ZF, said: “It is an absolute pleasure to have someone with Estelle’s stature and drive taking up the role of President of the Zionist Federation. Estelle is committed to Zionism and the ZF and has already vowed to make her time in this role one of active and passionate engagement, not simply a title to hold. I look forward very much to working with Estelle in all of our mutual endeavours.”