Consecrating Luton Hebrew Congregation's new synagogue on Sunday was a nostalgic experience for Lord Sacks, who began his rabbinic career in the town 35 years ago.

"I was head of your cheder and I also helped to take some of the services, since when I have moved on to lower things," the Chief Rabbi joked. He was pleased to see several familiar faces from that time, particularly honorary life vice-president Wally Bard.

Surveying the refurbished former doctor's surgery - "a conversion from the healing of the body to the healing of the soul" - Lord Sacks paid tribute to minister Rabbi Yossi Schwei and his wife for nurturing the congregation during their 20 years in Luton.

"In a small community like this one, there is often a greater sense of community than is found in some of the big north-west London shuls."

Once staunchly independent, the congregation is soon to become a full member of the United Synagogue.

Luton chair Brian Green said the congregation was without airs and graces. "We know everyone. We make everyone welcome. And no matter how often or not we come to shul, we are all accepted and respected."

He recounted some of the challenges faced following the sale 10 years ago of the synagogue in Bury Park, now an Islamic cultural centre. "There were times I felt like crying. A mix of bureaucratic red tape and endless meaningless meetings meant that not only was progress slow. It often seemed we were going backwards. However, I am so pleased that perseverance won."

Following an address from Rabbi Schwei, the consecration service concluded with Lord Sacks unveiling a commemorative plaque above the bimah.