The Baker family from Elstree will have a triple celebration on Shabbat when their daughter and twin sons will be bat- and barmitzvah at the New North London Synagogue in Finchley.

Philip Baker said boys Alexander and Oliver had delayed their big day so as to share it with sister Yolande.

“We wanted them to mark the occasion together,” Mr Baker explained. “We’re part of the Hakol Olin service which is egalitarian and allows both men and women to read from the Torah. As such, all five members of our family will be sharing the reading.”

His wife Bing admitted to being nervous at reading from the Torah for the first time. “But it’s wonderful to make this a real family day.”

Among the celebrants, Oliver saw the day as the culmination of a year’s preparation. Alexander looked forward to receiving “lots of presents” and Yolande was delighted that the whole family would be involved.

An anticipated congregation of 300 will include 200 family and friends of the Bakers.