Harvey and Vicki Belovski will step down as Golders Green United Synagogue’s senior rabbinic couple towards the end of 2023 after 20 years’ service.

In a letter to members, the Belovskis wrote: “We recognise that leadership includes knowing not just how and when to lead - but also when the time has come to pass on the baton.

“This decision has been a difficult one but we are confident that it is right for GGS and for us. We are sad to be leaving GGS but excited about moving to the next phase of our professional and family lives.”

Reflecting on their two decades at Golders Green, the couple said that with the support of “outstanding” lay leaders and professional staff, “we have worked to transform this community in almost every way”.

They would not be moving to another community, instead focusing on a portfolio of existing and new consultancy roles.

“In the meantime, we look forward to a fabulous final year at GGS.”

Thanking the Belovskis for their “enormous contribution”, shul chair David Vaughan said they had helped make Golders Green one of the “most vibrant, open, inclusive, and diverse modern Orthodox communities in British Jewry. Having made such a profound and everlasting impact on our community, they will leave us as great friends.”

Although change could be unsettling, it could also be positive and Mr Vaughan told members that he would be in contact shortly to outline the selection procedure for a new senior rabbinic couple.

“We will be canvassing as many of your views as possible before embarking on the formal selection process.”