Jewish and Muslim women in St Albans have set up a forum to promote dialogue between the communities.

Inspired by a group in America, Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom St Albans wants to host monthly meetings at the homes of supporters where refreshments will be vegetarian and alcohol-free.

The launch event was hosted by co-founder Ruth Cohen-Rose, who encouraged guests to dress warmly so they could eat fruit in the succah.

A spokeswoman for the group said politics would not be a part of its activities.

"We know how incredibly painful the Palestinian-Israeli conflict is for both faiths. It is such a painful area that talking about it will not lead us where we want to go - deeper into friendship, opening our hearts to one another.

"We recognise that we need to start where we are: creating peace between us and bringing our children up to respect and care for all people so we move towards creating the world we want to live in."

She added: "We'll share each other's festivals, hear each other's stories, share in joint social action and family events and learn more about each other's lives.

"Above all, we are creating a safe and welcoming space to move towards each other."