The Edgware and Elstree and Borehamwood Masorti synagogues are to merge, the move having been overwhelmingly approved at meetings of both congregations last night.

The merger follows increased co-operation between the two communities in recent times, notably the appointment of Rabbi Danny Newman as joint rabbi earlier this year.

It is anticipated the merger will be completed in December. Before then, an inaugural council will be elected which will decide on the name of the new community.

The intention is to find a site nearer to Borehamwood to cater for the increasing number of young Jewish families in the area.

Rabbi Newman expressed “delight that both of the communities I serve have decided to build their futures together and I am excited about what now becomes possible when we bring together the wisdom, experience and resources of EMS with the young families, children and growth potential of EBMC.”