Luton Hebrew Congregation has acquired a custom-built ark for its Dunstable Road synagogue which it moved to in September. The ark replaces the modified MFI wardrobe which the independent shul utilised as a “temporary” measure for the past eight years.

Donated by three Luton families and built by a local cabinet maker for just under £3,000, the ark was based on rough drawings put together by shul chair Brian Green, treasurer Jeff Solomons and minister Rabbi Yossi Schwei. It holds four of the congregation’s Torah scrolls.

“It has already been much admired by shul members,” said Mr Solomons, “even though we still have to sort out some lighting, add a Hebrew inscription round the top and install the curtains from our old ark which need altering. And we are also awaiting the installing of a new ner tamid.”

The latest acquisitions are part of a makeover planned for the former doctor’s surgery purchased by the congregation last year.