More than 100 people attended the inaugural Shabbat morning service of Mill Hill East Jewish Community at a local youth centre, which was followed by an Ottolenghi-style kiddush.

"We couldn't have asked for a better response," said Josh Kleiman, 30, one of the founders of the youthful United Synagogue backed congregation. "We have received fantastic feedback from attendees. We look forward to many more services and seeing the community grow."

Friday night services, festival celebrations and social events have been held since the inaugural meeting last May..

Mill Hill East is part of the United Synagogue's "Communities of Potential" initiative. David Kaplan, director of community services at the US, said the turnout on Shabbat morning underlined demand for a congregation in the area. "We have been delighted to work alongside the local team and want to acknowledge the work of all the volunteers in turning the vision into reality."