Edgware and Hendon Reform Synagogue's much loved and admired Rabbi Neil Kraft has died after contracting coronavirus.

Rabbi Kraft was a hugely popular figure both within the community he led for 18 years and further afield.

He was rushed to hospital after showing the symptoms of Covid-19 and was placed on a ventilator in intensive care.

But Rabbi Kraft lost his fight to stay alive on Friday - only weeks before he was due to retire from his leading role at the shul.

His son Elie wrote: "Despite the NHS doing an amazing job trying to save him, he unfortunately didn't make it.

"I don't really know what to say other than my family and I are completely devastated.

"Not only did he mean a lot to us. He also meant a lot to wider Jewish community."

Rabbi Kraft's son asked that the community now allow the family "some space to grieve."

The JC understands that the rabbi had an underlying health issue before contracting coronavirus.

The rabbi had previously led the Woodford and District Liberal Synagogue community and South London Liberal shul.

Born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, he had two sons with wife Susannah.

In a statement the Board of Deputies said they "share the deep sorrow  of many in the community".

The Board added: "We wish every comfort to his wife Susannah and his two sons. May his memory be for a blessing."