Harrogate Hebrew congregation has had a major refit costing tens of thousands of pounds just in time for the Yom tavim.
The Jewish Telegraph reports this included an upgraded floor in the shul and new furniture in the Stanley Burton banqueting hall. There were also roof repairs to the main building and the succah. Additionally there was an upgrade to the shul’s flat and toilet facilities.
Secretary Phillip Morris said: “to those who know us we are haven in the heart of Harrogate. We provide a very warm welcome, excellent decorum and an offer of an Aliya to every visitor.”
Mr Morris said that Synagogue was delighted to have been “in such a strong position” to carry out a large program of works for the benefit of the congregation and to be completed in time for the high holy days.
“We are blessed to enjoy a beautiful, traditional civil service and a friendly very friendly community, with condition every Shabbat,” he added. “We look forward to welcoming the usual influx of guests in even more splendid surroundings.”
The synagogue attract members and guests from a wide surrounding area, including those those from the recently closed Bradford synagogue. Country members include regular London visitors with nearby holiday homes.
The shul now has a diverse cohort of ministers on its Shabbat rotor to lead the service, many of whom are able to spend the weekend in the synagogue flat with their families.
Mr Morris said: “we have started our regular services a little later at 10 am and this has proved popular, resulting in increased attendance.
We are delighted to welcome newcomers and familiar faces through our doors.”