In the largest in-person community event since the first lockdown, thousands participated in Sunday’s Maccabi GB Community Fun Run in support of 76 charities.

Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis was the starter for the 5k runners and Saracens owner Nigel Wray did the honours for the 1k event. Participants also had the option of the 10k or the tri-run, combining all three distances.

There were accompanying family-friendly activities from “slime making” to mini-golf. For the Bank Holiday crowd, UJIA offered an interactive Tel Aviv experience including a beach and fruit juice bar. JW3 hosted baby yoga and there were also dance performances and a football masterclass.

Maccabi GB chairman David Pinnick said: “It was incredible to see the community return en masse to an actual live event.

“We were all able to enjoy a fun-packed family day out and it was heartening to see so many participants of all ages raising money for their chosen communal charities. I am delighted that Maccabi GB has managed to bring the Community Fun Run back this year.”

One of the runners, Alexander Fenton, said: ‘It was great to participate. I have never run 5k but I loved being a part of the run and seeing everyone cheer each other on. The whole day was amazing and it was great to see the community come back together.”