Emeritus Elstree and Borehamwood minister Rabbi Alan Plancey was among local councillors at the shul's annual civic service on Shabbat.

The 400-plus congregation, including police representatives, was told by Rabbi Naftali Brawer that the shul took its civic responsibility seriously. "A number of our members are elected councillors and we are exceptionally proud of the work they do for all the residents of Borehamwood and Elstree. We are also thankful for all the dedicated support we receive from the wider municipal services."

Afterwards, Sergeant Kate Chalmers from the Safer Neighbourhood Scheme said she had expected a synagogue service to reserved and formal. She had been pleasantly surprised by the relaxed atmosphere. And Rabbi Brawer's sermon - exploring the links between Judaism's ideal of communities looking out for each other and David Cameron's Big Society concept - had "really resonated".