Synagogue closes after 60 years

Reverend Alan Greenbat conducted a valedictory service, attended by dozens of present and former members, before guests bade the venue an emotional farewell at a party.

Former ministers Bernard Koshland, reverend from 1955-57, and Aubrey Ross (64-71) also recalled fond memories of their time in Hounslow.

Basil Mann, of Syon Lane, Osterley, has attended the synagogue since moving to the borough in 1982.

He described Sunday's final service as a 'very emotional' event but said it was inevitable younger Jewish people would leave Hounslow because of the lack of facilities.

He will now attend the synagogue in Ealing, with other worshippers transferring to temples in Staines, Kingston and Richmond.

Hounslow had a thriving Jewish community in the 1940s, with many people settling there after being evacuated from central London during the war.

Worshippers began holding services in their homes in 1943, moving to the Congregational Rooms three years later and the present building in 1948.

A cheder (Jewish elementary school), youth club, study group, ladies' guild and a synagogue journal were all set up and in 1999 the synagogue celebrated its 50th anniversary with a service attended by the Chief Rabbi.

Hella and Rolf Dalprop are regulars at Staines Synagogue but have attended dozens of events in Hounslow since moving to west London in 1949.

Hella, who fled Nazi Germany as a teenager in the 30s, said: "We've attended lots of functions and celebrations at Hounslow Synagogue over the years and there's always been a very nice family atmosphere."