Borehamwood Town Council has voted to move Families Day - a highlight of the annual two-week civic festival - from a Saturday to Sunday "to allow families from the Jewish community to enjoy the day, as many observe the Sabbath on the Saturday".
As a trial, Families Day will this year be held on Sunday, July 1. The free event includes a funfair for children and fundraising stalls from local charities.
Responding to critics of the decision, Borehamwood's Jewish Mayor, Councillor Sandra Parnell, maintained that the change would benefit all communities. With many more activities taking place over the weekend, festival-goers would get "two days of fun instead of one".