One of British Jewry’s leading educational figures has been honoured by Israel by being chosen to be one of the torchbearers for its Independence Day ceremony next week.

Rabbi David Meyer, the chief executive of the Jewish schools’ network PaJeS, is one of two representatives of the diaspora to take part in the occasion.

The torch bearing ceremony, a symbol of hope and perseverance commemorates the nation's journey towards freedom and sovereignty.

Rabbi Meyer, a former executive headteacher of the Hasmonean High Schools, is a member of the advisory committee of the educational organisation UnitEd, which is supported by the Israeli Ministry for Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism.

He said, “I am humbled by this honour which is an accolade for all educational leaders from across the diaspora. It is particularly poignant to see this recognition at these dark and challenging times when the our school leaders and teachers are working tirelessly to protect and educate our children.

“As we celebrate Israeli Independence Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to preserving our heritage and values and reaffirming our solidarity and resilience in the face of adversity."