The Great Challah Make kicked off the Shabbat UK weekend in style, with 5,000 women gathering in north London to knead, socialise and sing.

Speaking from a stage overlooking the challah preparation at a marquee opposite Brent Cross, Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis said organisers and participants had created an “amazing spectacle”, and called on the community to maintain the momentum.

“We're off to an incredible start to this year's Shabbat UK, and we have no doubt that this year's will be even better than last year,” he added. “Don't wait until Shabbat UK next year. Strengthen your Yiddishkeit, connect to your roots.”

US Women co-chair Dalia Cramer and rebbetzin Joanne Dove led the challah makers through the production process.

Amid the flying flour and the soaring sounds of the Shabbat UK song, participant Michelle Pomerance praised the “amazing achievement” of bringing thousands of people together for Shabbat.

The Hertsmere Jewish Primary School teacher, who took part with her sister and mother, said: “We came last year, so we wanted to experience it again.

“We're getting better, I think. We're doing a challah bake at my school and I'm leading it, so this is a test run. It's a great start to what I hope will be a great weekend for everybody.”

Challah makes were also held at major Jewish centres around the country.