Norwood has recruited a stellar couple to share its presidential duties - former Labour Party adviser Lord Jon Mendelsohn and his wife, Nicola, Facebook's European vice-president.

Supporters were told of the appointments at the children and families charity's annual dinner at London's Grosvenor House.

Speaking ahead of the dinner, Mrs Mendelsohn said the couple were "incredibly humbled" to have been approached.

“I’ve always been a huge admirer of the work they do supporting vulnerable people and children with learning disabilities. The chance to do something with Jon and give something back to the community was too good to resist. Both of us grew up in very community-minded families and that’s always been at the heart of everything we’ve done.

“Two heads are better than one. I work in the world of tech, so innovation is my best friend. We both bring very different skills and will approach challenges in different ways. I’m a strong believer that if you want something done, you ask a busy person.”

Lord Mendelsohn - shadow spokesperson for business, innovation and skills - said he had been attracted by the idea of being involved in a charity that was “well run, with high standards and a great team who are very professional”. The bonus was sharing the presidential duties with his “outstanding” wife.

“We believe that a lot about the community is the strength of family, so it's nice to be able to do something as a family.”

Norwood chief executive Elaine Kerr said the charity was "hugely excited to have Nicola and Jon as our presidents, knowing they share our vision to be there for those who need us.

“Individually they bring a wealth of work experience, knowledge and skills which will inevitably make very valuable contributions to the future of our organisation, and therefore the wider Jewish community."

The Mendelsohns replace media boss Richard Desmond, who stood down as president in March.