The Ahavas Yisrael kehillah in Edgware has been awarded full United Synagogue status by the US Council.

Operating from the Langdon charity's Edgware premises, Ahavas Yisrael is led by Dayan Elimelech Vanzetta. It has a growing membership of 45 and its Shabbat services attract up to 70 people, including Langdon clients.

It recently launched a fundraising project for a Sefer Torah, generating half the required amount within a few weeks. A representative said that although the shul had the option of remaining on the Langdon site for five years, it would be looking for a permanent home.

US president Stephen Pack believed that "this lovely community is well placed to serve the increasing number of young families moving into the south side of Edgware".

Elsewhere, a satellite of Mill Hill Synagogue in Mill Hill East is planning regular Friday night services from September.

It is well placed to serve young families moving into the south side of Edgware

Another new United Synagogue community, Magen Avot in Hendon, is now meeting for Shabbat services at the Nancy Reuben School while it searches for permanent premises.