A CITY’S first Jewish group since the last synagogue closed more than 60 years ago has been set up.

The group of Liberal Jews, which meets in Durham, is welcoming new members from across the region.

The first service, which was led by Dr Bill Fleming, was held at the Waddington Street United Reformed Church.

Member Hava Fleming said: “I can’t really describe it, it was such a great thing to get together and meet new people who are delighted we have done this.”

Services will be held around once a month and will change venues.

It is the first Jewish group in Durham since the last synagogue closed in 1955.

Ms Fleming added: “We wanted to reach out to the descendants of the Orthodox synagogues in Bishop Auckland, Stockton-on-Tees, Durham, West Hartlepool, Sunderland and Middlesbrough which closed as the collieries and shipping industries dwindled.

“Both Jewish people and their non-Jewish partners and children are equally welcome. In Durham we hope to engage not only in religious services and study, but also in community life, and social action. We are keen to engage with interfaith partners both in the wider community and amongst the universities and hospitals, both staff and students.”

In Liberal Jewish Services men and women sit together and many of the prayers are in English.

Member Clare Thorpe said: “Now people want a more open, friendly, progressive approach, which truly welcomes people enquiring about the faith, and where people will experience no prejudice about sexuality, gender, race or ability.”

Dr Bill Fleming said the group had been given a warm welcome. He added: “We feel we belong in Durham now.”

The next service will be held on August 6, at 11am at the United Reform Church and will be followed by a picnic lunch.

People interested in finding out more about Liberal Judaism, which is affiliated to the World Union of Progressive Judaism, can visit www.nejewsindurham.org.uk.