By Anonymous
After six months of building work, Ealing Synagogue has relocated from the Grange Road building it has occupied for more than 75 years to a new home in the adjoining former communal hall.
The United Synagogue-backed redevelopment project has seen the hall transformed into a modern shul and multi-function community centre. The building is also wheelchair accessible, with a special area in the shul reserved for the disabled and infirm.
Other features are offices for the rabbi and administrator, meeting rooms and, to the delight of the ladies' guild, a modern kitchen. Much of the equipment and furnishings was funded by congregants' donations. However, helping members to feel immediately at home, many key items were transferred from the former building.
Steering committee co-chair Dawn Shestopal said the first service - attended by 200 people - had been "a very emotional occasion for many of those present. For a community that celebrated its 90th anniversary just 18 months ago, it demonstrates that there is still much life, commitment, loyalty and passion in its members."