IN PICTURES: Community news round-up: 23-30 April

Commemorations for Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut celebrations: this week’s community news round-up.

Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, Home Secretary Theresa May, Israeli Ambassador Daniel Taub and Bnei Akiva Mazkir Ben Dov Salasnik were among those attending BA’s annual Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut service and celebration at Finchley Synagogue.

The Spanish and Portuguese Jews’ Congregation held a sombre memorial service for Yom Ha’Zikaron featuring the S&P Youth, followed by a musical Arbit service with the synagogue choir.

More than 350 JFS students enjoyed a celebratory breakfast as part of the school’s Yom Ha’atzmaut celebrations. UJIA ran educational sessions across the school, which included a visit from the Israeli ambassador and his family.

Yom Ha’azmaut GIFT ran sessions at Yavneh College and Independent Jewish Day School, where children made Israeli flag decorations for old age homes and personalised magnets for Israeli soldiers.

Hasmonean Primary School got in the mood for Israeli Independence Day as students dressed in blue and white and brought in tzedakah. Activities included making limonana bars, singing and learning some new Ivrit.

Children from Toddlers Playgroup in Edgware danced and sang with their Israeli flags, made a healthy Israeli salad, decorated a cake and sang Yom Huledet, which were all part of blue and white themed activities taking place throughout the week.

London NW RCUK opened its third branch last week in Golders Green. Sales director Maxi Rose said: “I’d like to thank the entire RCUK team for their hard work, enthusiasm and commitment and to each of our loyal clients.” The branch will offer opening promotions until 6 August.

Simon Marks Jewish Primary School celebrated Israel’s birthday with a Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut assembly led by Year 5. There was also Israeli dancing for all classes, an Israeli-themed lunch and a big birthday cake.

UJIA’s Yom Ha’atzmaut business breakfast raised £150,000 as 300 guests heard a rousing speech from chairman Bill Benjamin and from guest speaker Baron David de Rothschild.