After many years' planning and fundraising, work has finally begun on the construction of a mikveh at the rear of Cockfosters and North Southgate Synagogue.

The mikveh will serve not only the women of the Cockfosters community but also those from neighbouring congregations including Barnet, Southgate, Hadley Wood and Potters Bar.

Among the trustees are CNSS minister Rabbi Yisroel Fine - the driving force behind the project - ladies' committee chair Chantal Young, Jeanine Cohen, Kathy Rothstein and outgoing CNSS chair Jon Barron.

"A mikveh is a key component of any community," Rabbi Fine said. "I am proud that CNSS will now be on the map providing such a wonderful resource."

Mr Barron added that money had been raised "not only within the CNSS community but also though many independent generous donations from further afield".

It is anticipated the mikveh will open soon after the High Holy-Days.