Sir Keir Starmer joined Mitzvah Day volunteers at South Hampstead Synagogue on Sunday morning, helping to sort a mountain of donated clothes, food, toys and baby essentials for distribution to a variety of charities.

The Labour leader has become a Mitzvah Day regular at the United shul, which is within his Holborn and St Pancras constituency. So much so that his office described his visit as “a chance to catch up with old friends”.

He said that the day of good deeds, involving some 25,000 people, was “emblematic of the country we are and the values we hold. I’m delighted to have played my part at South Hampstead Synagogue.

“They’ve been collecting donations for local charities and have had an incredible response from the community. Credit to all those involved in making it happen.”

More than 100 people participated in South Hampstead’s Mitzvah Day activities, in aid of causes ranging from Camp Simcha to a charity supporting Afghan refugees.

During an hour at the synagogue, Sir Keir also addressed young volunteers preparing to operate a donations stall outside the Waitrose branch in Finchley Road, saying it was inspirational to see their commitment.

South Hampstead’s Mitzvah Day co-ordinator, Ben Leon, said Sir Keir had “built up relations with our rabbis and our community. He thinks it is wonderful what the community is doing, especially given the situation we are in at the moment. He feels it’s so important to give support to charities and foodbanks.”

He also appreciated Mitzvah Day’s contribution to community cohesion by involving people of all faiths and none.

In a message of support, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak praised Mitzvah Day for helping “to foster a wonderful community spirit, celebrating diversity of faith or belief and demonstrating that we each have a responsibility to one another.
“This year’s theme of Winter Warmers is particularly apt and I know our communities will rally round with donations of warm clothing and generally reach out with compassion to those who need it the most.
“I would like to wish everyone involved a hugely successful Mitzvah Day and to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the volunteers taking part.”

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon was “delighted to see the Jewish community bringing together people of many faiths for a day of action based on social issues.

“Through this truly interfaith action, our communities are making a practical contribution to people who may be struggling as winter approaches. I send my best wishes to all those involved.”