JLife Manchester March-April 2024

CONTENTS: MAR / APR 2024

IN THISISSUE

Purim

Leah and Ozer Moszkowski offer some thoughts about the festival, we give our pick of kids’ costume ideas, and Claire Brown offers a tasty Hamantaschen recipe. Starts page 12.

Sleep Well

Advice from a local expert on why good sleep is so important and how to do it. Page 16.

Mother’s Day

We check out some Mother’s Day traditions around the world and pick out the perfect present with our gift guide. Starts page 20.

Wedding Special

Get ready to tie the knot with our pick of wedding destinations, a look at bridal gown trends and formalwear recommendations, advice on catering and planning the big day. Starts page 24.

Passover

Rabbi Fabian Sborovsky of Menorah Synagogue discusses the significance of freedom at Passover. Page 52.

And the winner is…

Sallyanne Rose won a £200 voucher to spend on treatments at Dr.S Clinic and The Nail Lounge.

YOUR REGULARFEATURES

JLife Meets…

Ahead of her performance at Manchester Jewish Museum, we speak to Noga Ritter about her debut solo album, Ima. Page 46.

May Chen from Tsia Te speaks to us for National Tea Day about how to embed tea in mindful practice and getting a good cuppa. Page 75.

Dr Benjamin Wild, Senior Lecturer at the Manchester Fashion Institute shares what it was like for 50 students to be selected to work backstage at Chanel’s show. Page 79.

Community

Check out the latest news, events, and simchas across the community. Starts page 9.

Competition

Win an overnight stay for two including dinner and breakfast at Mercure Blackburn Dunkenhalgh. Page 35.

Fashion

This year’s spring and summer collections are out! Update your wardrobe by catching up with this season's trends. Page 38.

Homestyle

As the weather begins to brighten up, get your garden ready for some sunny climes with some fun additions. Page 44.

Well Read

For World Book Day on 7th March, here’s how you can set up your own book club at home for adults and families. Page 45.

PUBLISHER'S NOTE

We continue to pray for all those in the midst of the war and campaign for all hostages to be freed, surely the only way we can contemplate an end to all this. Since our last piece at time of writing, two more have come home, thankfully for them and their families, but how is the economy fairing in Israel since October 7th? We chat with Ofer Fohrer, Minister, Head of Economic and Trade Mission to the UK Embassy about the landscape.

Some amazing community events and initiatives have taken place typified by the March Against Antisemitism in town in January which was incredibly supported by the community and many people from the wider communities.

Israel

Ofer Fohrer, Head of Economic and Trade Mission to the UK Embassy of Israel, discusses the impact of the war on Israel’s economy. Page 47.

Easter Half Term

This Easter break there’s a whole host of exciting activities around the area for the whole family to enjoy. Page 56.

Business

We check in with Nigel Tobias after taking over as Chief Executive of the B-ICC. Page 62.

New Openings

Check the latest new hotspots and shops across Manchester. Page 74.

March/April edition is packed with an eclectic mix of festivities, Purim and Pesach, it’s our Wedding edition with features and tips around the big day, and we bring you fashion, beauty, garden products for the spring! Plus, Mother’s Day gifts, travel ideas and all the latest community and business news with a selection of lovely Simchas to share…

So, let’s raise a glass!

Speaking of which... you can win a fabulous stayover at the Mercure Dunkenhalgh Hotel too. Follow us on socials.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Charity Seeks New Projects

The Children’s Alliance charity is looking for community projects to fund in Manchester now to create better starts and brighter futures for all children. So far, they have secured £60,000 in grants to fund community projects all over the UK. From small wild swimming groups to long-running sports clubs anybody can apply for funding, the project just needs to have something to do with water and swimming!

Children’s Alliance aims to give children the best start in life. It was founded by Water Babies’ late CEO Steve Franks in 2019 – Water Babies is the world’s largest baby and toddler swimming school.

Although the organisation has been campaigning in parliament and active in communities since 2019 it has just secured charitable status – a major milestone in Water Babies history. With charitable status in place the team can continue the campaigns and projects they have been working on and look toward a future full of opportunities to make a difference to children.

Fed Awarded Funding to Fight Poverty

The Fed is to be the recipient of a welcome £75,000 Community Organisations Cost of Living Grant from The National Lottery Community Fund. This is awarded to frontline organisations that offer critical services for low-income households and individuals who are under severe pressure due to the increased cost of living.

For The Fed, this means a boost to operating expenses for three of its community services – the Community Advice Support Team (effectively the social work team), its weekly ‘Chatty Cafe’, and Volunteer Services Department.

Together these support people who are struggling financially through various means: providing food and emergency supplies; hot meals; clothing and toiletries, and warm, safe space to meet, as well as access to housing and financial advice and information, including debt management and welfare entitlements.

Lucy Edwards, Trusts, Foundations and Bids Fundraiser explained: “Financial pressures have had a substantial impact on the type of individual cases our social workers are dealing with. People are turning to us with more complex cases with multiple health, social and housing issues. We are doing far more benefit claims for people and the same is the case with applications for charitable grants and school uniform aid.

“Our social workers have been dealing with more cases where bailiffs or debt collectors are involved or people have been evicted, as well as referrals for parenting support to help children who are struggling with anxiety or depression.”

Whisky Night Funds Vital Work

Heathlands Village’s coffee shop was infused with the unmistakable aroma of malt whisky last on 8th February when 80 eager aficionados, on the trail of liquid gold, helped The Fed raise £8,000 towards its life-transforming and, at times, life-saving work.

Under the masterful direction of connoisseur Graham Burns they sampled eight whiskies by the bespoke distiller Angus Dundee… and if that wasn’t enough to warm the cockles, they also tucked into… cholent and chips!

Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications, Raphi Bloom offered thanks to all who came and supported the event which will help support The Fed’s vital work in the community and at Heathlands Village.

UJIA Dinner Raised £390,000

UJIA held its North-West “We Stand Together” Dinner on Thursday 25th January at Vermilion. Over 400 guests were in attendance to stand together in strength and in solidarity with the people of Israel. Guest speaker Fleur Hassan–Nahoum, the Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem and Special Envoy for Innovation, spoke about the terrorist atrocities of October 7th. She said: “We know that when Israel hurts, you in the Diaspora hurt also.” Fleur’s inspiring speech awarded her a standing ovation. She was inspiring and powerful, a realist and an optimist – a voice of hope and strength during such challenging times.

The organisation is delighted to announce over £390,000 was raised, which will support UJIA’s work both here in the UK and in Israel, including helping the survivors of the October 7th attacks. It will support the people of Israel at a crucial juncture, provide the opportunity for even more of our young people to experience Israel, be empowered as the leaders of tomorrow and make the connection to Israel that is essential for the long-term continuity of our community.

Holocaust Survivor Inspires Pupils

The Manchester Grammar School was delighted to welcome British Empire Medal (BEM) recipient and Holocaust survivor Ike Alterman, aged 95, to the school. Mr Alterman was recognised in the King’s first birthday honours list in 2023 for his outstanding work in educating the public about the atrocities of the Holocaust. His visit to The Manchester Grammar School left an indelible impact, inspiring students and reinforcing the importance of understanding historical realities.

Mr. Alterman survived four concentration camps and death camps and a Nazi death march as a child before being liberated by Russian forces on 9th May 1945. Having lost both of his parents in the Holocaust, Mr. Alterman arrived in the UK with over 700 Jewish orphans, settling in Manchester. Despite the challenges he faced, he went on to have a successful career as a jeweller, retiring in his 70s.

Ike was one of the group of 300 child survivors of the Holocaust, known as the “Windermere Children”, who found solace and support in the Lake District of England. This humanitarian initiative, aptly named the "Windermere Scheme," provided a haven for these young survivors, offering them a chance to rebuild their lives after the unimaginable horrors of Nazi concentration camps.

Ike captivated pupils with his personal account, emphasising the importance of empathy, tolerance, and helping those in need having lost his entire family during the Holocaust. His inspirational talk aimed to ensure that the pupils understand the historical context of the Holocaust and the lessons it provides for building a compassionate society.

NHS Offers Genetic BRCA Gene Test

NHS England is now offering free BRCA gene testing for anyone living in England, aged 18 or over with one or more Jewish grandparent, of any type of Jewish origin (Ashkenazi, Sephardi, Mizrahi etc). In line with medical research, it is now considered best practice to offer BRCA gene testing to all Jewish people, irrespective of their own personal or family history of cancer. A similar approach has already been adopted in Israel.

This new programme provides an unprecedented opportunity to better identify individuals with a BRCA gene fault – which increases the risk of developing certain cancers – in the Jewish community in England, hopefully saving lives through prevention.

Passover

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What parents & pupils are saying

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My daughter really felt it helped focus

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IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

I,

ROBOT

King David Jewish Primary School recently hosted a robotics competition, with students competing for a place in a national competition.

King David Jewish Primary School recently hosted the VEX IQ Robotics Competition, the only Jewish school to have ever done so. For the last two years, Jonathon Simons, Owner of Code Inventorz, has been running a robotics club for the children at the school and is the onus behind the school hosting the competition.

Jonathon explained to us how the competition worked: “VEX releases a competition every single year and you must design a robot based on the competition as a skilled game. This year’s competition was

called Full Volume. They had to design a robot that has an intake which can pick up different shaped blocks and score them into a goal. The beauty of it is that they have to do an autonomous event, so as well as using radio controls to control the robot they actually have to code the steps that the robot has to take. The kids were randomly teamed with other schools. No one is ever working against each other; they’re working together to get the most points.”

Both the robotic clubs and the competition are beneficial to the children’s development

and prospects: “The club is really orientated around working together, solving problems, making up the design, and communicating clearly. In this country, in STEM engineering, there’s a huge deficit in jobs. In the club, you’re building up those future skills in the children.”

Clearly the club is having an effect, as pupils Danny Bentlley, Theo Benson, and Freddie Winburn, won a spot in the national competition.

WHAT A SHOW!

The Jewish Theatre Company celebrates a win at the 2024 Annual NODA Awards.

Celebrating a noteworthy achievement at the 2024 Annual NODA Awards Ceremony in January, The Jewish Theatre Company clinched the prestigious Best Brochure award for its stellar production of "California Suite." The accolade was a testament to the creative prowess of cast member Howard Yaffe, who not only graced the stage but also lent his design talents to craft the award-winning brochure.

The glitzy event saw Howard Yaffe, joined by fellow cast members Deborah Finley, Jaysen Lewin, Deborah Loofe, Julian Kosky, Rachael Bloom, and Alina Cohen, along with Co-Chair

Shelley Blackston, basking in the well-deserved recognition.

Looking ahead, The Jewish Theatre Company has exciting plans in store for its audience. Director Stacey Friedman will take the reins for the upcoming comedy "You Don't Have to be Jewish," scheduled for 30th June. Additionally, a captivating play is in the pipeline for the end of 2024. Stay tuned for updates on social media and the website Thejtc.co.uk/buytickets for more information and to secure your tickets to these upcoming productions.

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: LAWRENCE PURCELL PHOTOGRAPHY

ALL PHOTOS: JOE DANIEL PHOTOGRAPHY

FOLLOWED BY SUSHI…

AND

ELLA TAYLOR-FESLER RECENTLY CELEBRATED HER BAT MITZVAH!

HER PROUD FAMILY SUPPORTED HER ON HER SPECIAL DAY.

THE PARTY STARTED AT WHITEFIELD GOLF CLUB ORGANISED BY CREATIVE EVENTS BY CLAIRE.

ELLA’S FRIENDS JOINED HER TO CELEBRATE AND DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY.

FRIENDS GAVE A SPECIAL TRIBUTE FOR THE STAR OF THE SHOW.

FACE PAINTING!

Dealing with punctures is a frequent challenge for today's drivers, requiring a thoughtful decision on whether to repair or replace the affected tyre. When opting for a repair, a common method involves the application of a bonded rubber plug to the interior of the tyre, seamlessly extending up to the tread area.

It is crucial to exercise caution, limiting repairs to no more than two or three, depending on the puncture's location. Run flat tyres, designed with a specific molecular structure strength during manufacturing, should not undergo repairs, as it could compromise their strength and reliability.

While the cost of puncture repairs may vary, a properly executed fix typically demands

around 30 minutes of your time. However, strict guidelines dictate safe repair areas, emphasizing the importance of seeking advice from a tyre specialist. Certain regions on the tyre should not undergo repair, and an attached guide can aid in understanding these restrictions.

In instances where the puncture is deemed non-repairable, the only choice is to invest in a new tyre. Punctures are not a swift, makeshift resolution; they require meticulous attention and must be approached with patience when consulting with a tyre specialist.

To delve deeper into this subject, valuable insights and additional information can be explored on our website, Pmbgarage.com

Unmasked

Rabbi Ozer and Leah Moszkowski discuss letting loose for Purim.

Judaism is about balance, finding the golden path, equilibrium, the happy medium –not too much food, not too little, not too much prayer, not too little, not full burkha, not fully naked, you get the idea. 364 days a year, we follow this model for alcohol consumption too – not too much, not too little, have a little tipple when you’re in the mood, enjoy some kiddush wine on a Friday night, knock back a cold one with a mate, sample a l’chaim at a celebration, sensible moderation, until… we hit Purim, and then suddenly, good sense and moderation are down the toilet, as well as our heads. What is going on? Did we just collectively decide to ditch common sense for a day? We’ll be good, sensible humans 364 days a year, but today our hair is down, bottles out, rulebook shredded, G-D CCTV deactivated, act like a madman. If this is how you view Purim, that’s ok, no judgement, but could there possibly be something else at play here?

Let’s break this down. What is drunkenness? Drunkenness is an inhibition-less state. Now for many, this means brazen statements, boundless confidence, loss of awareness of behaviour, loss of bodily control. Not exactly positive or desirable behaviours by any stretch. But what if alcohol propelled us to spend a day being uninhibited to be do-gooders? To stand up for what’s right against a torrent of opposition, to fight for truth (with words not hands), afraid of no one and nothing, brazenly stating that we are proud to be Jews, boundlessly confident in our support of Israel, unafraid to be labelled as boring when we choose to spend our Saturday mornings at shul and unconcerned that we’ll be ridiculed for wearing a kippah at work.

But how, pray tell, do I achieve this angelical inhibition-less state, and not the wild, noisy, vomity one? Are there special vodka cauldrons smuggled from cold Eastern European Shtetls with magic spiritual powers? Or secret back streets in Meah Shearim with underground Rabbis blessing vats of decaying wine.

Here’s the secret, huddle up, this is really important!

The answer is already inside of you! Judaism believes that we are all inherently good to the core, we just sometimes need some external aids to plough through the layers of self-doubt which have piled on through life and circumstance. On Purim, with the help of fermented grapes and grains, we can fully embrace this true self, uninhibited by the conventions of a self-centric, tragic society. On Purim we can let loose and tell our friends through slurred words and smelly breath how much we truly love them. We can cry at the beauty of our surroundings, and when we wake up the next morning with a sledgehammer between our ears, we can smile as we recall our words and promises of the day before, no longer ashamed of our antics, but marvelling at our passion and bravery to be true to our pure, beautiful essence, and inspiring ourselves to embrace our best parts which we glimpsed under the mask of inhibition.

Fancy That!

Get some costume inspiration ahead of Purim with our pick of fancy dress ideas on the market.

Pirate costume | £9.37

This cool hat and eye patch will transform your little one into a cute pirate in no time at all – it’s a real eye-catcher! Made from soft velvet and decorated with a glittering golden skull, it’s all the charm without the fuss. The eye patch is made of soft black velvet with an elastic band that can be easily pulled over the head, and it stay secure through any amount of running and shenanigans.

Takatomo.de

Dinosaur costume | £30

This adorable dino costume is perfect for any kid who’s seen Jurassic Park too many times! Not only is it snug and cosy, but the hood is also padded for safety, so your little darling can rampage to their heart’s content, without you having to worry about them getting injured. In addition to this, the claws lay over the top of the hand to avoid restricting hand movement. The suit is available for kids aged three to nine and is supplied by the Natural History Museum.

Nhmshop.co.uk

Fairy princess costume | £54.99

Let your child be the belle of the ball in this gorgeous fairy princess costume. The matching cape and skirt are both decorated with glittery stars with are sure the dazzle. The outfit is completed with a sequined magic wand and matching star headband. The costume is available in a range of colours, including white and silver, pink and silver, and black and gold, so you can customise the look to your heart’s content.

Gingerray.co.uk

Where’s Wally costume | £16

Dress as a beloved icon with this easily recognisable costume from Matalan. The red and white striped top features a classic Wally print, while the blue trousers, bobble hat, and glasses complete the look. This looks is available in ages four to nine. Just be sure not to let your little one out of your sight in a crowd, lest you end up playing the beloved game for real!

Matalan.co.uk

Spider-Man costume | £8

Its time to act out the masked hero’s web-slinging adventures in style with this dress-up set. The set contains a long-sleeved tee, hood, and gloves, all designed to look like the iconic Spider-Man suit (webs not included!). Available in sizes small to large, every kid and even adults can be a superhero, but don’t try climbing any walls!

Primark.com

Sweet Treats

Claire Brown shares her family’s recipe for everyone’s favourite Purim treat, hamantaschen.

Ingredients

8oz/225g SR flour

4oz/110g hard margarine

2oz/55g sugar

1 egg

Fillings

Mon (see recipe below)

dates and walnuts

Raisins with Jam

Chocolate square

Chocolate spread

Mon Filling

8 oz whole unground poppy seeds (1 1/2 cups)

2oz unsalted butter or marge

1 cup milk/pareve substitute

e.g. soya milk

3/4 cup sugar

1/4 cup honey

1/4 tsp salt

2 large eggs, beaten

My wonderful late mother in law, Freda, gave me this pastry recipe over 20 years ago, and it is virtually foolproof. It can easily be doubled if you want to make more cookies.

The filling for these biscuits can be varied according to personal preference. Have a play and see which filling combinations you like the best. Traditionally these treats are filled with a combination of poppyseed, honey and sultanas, but you could go down the chocaholics route and use chocolate spread or a square of chocolate, go Persian and mix dates, walnuts and rosewater, or child friendly with jam and raisins.

Method for pastry

1. Sift flour into a large mixing bowl and grate the margarine into the flour.

2. Rub the margarine into the flour till it forms fine breadcrumbs then stir in sugar.

3. Crack the egg into a glass and beat with a fork. Pour into the centre of the dry mixture and work with a knife until it comes together, then using your hands to draw it into a ball. If the mixture is too dry to form a ball add a teaspoon or two of water until the desired consistency.

4. Wrap the ball of pastry in cling film or foil and chill in the fridge for at least an hour. The mixture can be frozen at this point and thawed at a later date for use.

5. After an hour divide the mixture into two balls. Roll each ball out on a floured board to form a thin rectangle of pastry. Using a round cookie cutter cut out circles of dough and place on a lined baking sheet. Gather together the scraps and repeat until all the pastry is used up.

6. Place a spoonful of your chosen filling into the centre of each disc of pastry and draw up the sides and pinch together to form a triangle shape.

7. Bake the pastries in a pre- heated oven gas mark 4 160C for 10 to 15 minutes until they are a pale golden colour.

8. Cool on a wire tray and then dust with icing sugar to serve.

9. These cookies keep in an airtight container for a week or can be frozen until needed.

Mon filling method

1. Grind the poppy seeds in a coffee grinder in batches for about 15 to 20 seconds per batch, until they are ground soft and powdery. Use a food processor if you don’t have a coffee grinder.

2. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the milk, sugar, honey, and salt. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, till the sugar dissolves and the honey melts.

3. Pour about one cup of the hot liquid into a cup.

4. Immediately but gradually drizzle the hot liquid into the beaten eggs. Whisk briskly and constantly till all of the hot liquid is integrated into the eggs. Do not pour too quickly, or you’ll scramble your eggs. It should take about a minute to drizzle all of the liquid.

1. Slowly pour the heated, tempered egg mixture back into the hot liquid in the saucepan, whisking constantly.

5. Continue to whisk and cook for three to five more minutes over medium heat till the mixture thickens and turns light yellow. It is ready when it thickly coats the back of a spoon.

6. Remove the saucepan from heat. Whisk the ground poppy seeds into the buttery liquid and stir well to blend all ingredients.

7. Allow filling to cool to room temperature before using. Store in a tightly covered container in the refrigerator for four to five days.

In a world filled with deadlines, responsibilities and the constant buzz of new technology, sleep often takes a backseat to productivity. Frances Taylor, a celebrated sleep expert based in Manchester, offers specialist advice to guide participants back to restorative sleep, as Julie Burniston writes.

Sleep It

Why good sleep matters

Frances Taylor is a wellbeing expert with more than 15 years supporting business leaders, managers, and teams to build personal and organisational resilience. In 2012, she became a Trustee and then a Fellow of the International Stress Management Association (UK), playing a key role in setting new standards, and became captivated by the overlooked topic of sleep. Realising its impact on health, particularly for those facing stress, Frances shifted her focus entirely to sleep wellness. Training in CBTi, (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for insomnia) the clinically researched front line treatment for both the UK and US, she now assists in unlocking the benefits of quality sleep.

As Frances aptly expresses, the significance of quality sleep cannot be overstated: "Everything is so much easier after a good night's sleep." Beyond mere restfulness in the morning, satisfying shuteye is essential for overall wellbeing and influences every facet of our lives. Starting the day refreshed and rejuvenated sets a positive tone, enhancing mood and providing a fresh wave of energy and focus. Moreover, quality sleep equips us to navigate life's demands and relationships with greater ease, contributing to both personal and professional success. A well-rested mind demonstrates resilience to stress, improved problem-solving abilities and heightened creativity and innovation.

Dispelling sleep myths and misconceptions

In the pursuit of better sleep, we often encounter a plethora of advice, ranging from

herbal remedies to sleep gadgets. However, Frances contends that achieving restful sleep doesn't necessitate expensive sleep aids or drastic lifestyle changes. Instead, she focuses on the following five elements:

• Good 24/7 sleep habits: Conducting an audit of daily routines and habits can help ensure they promote sound sleep. This may involve establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoiding stimulants such as caffeine close to bedtime.

• Positive sleep mindset: It's common to feel discouraged after nights of poor sleep, but cultivating a positive mindset can help rebuild confidence in the ability to sleep well.

• Sleep efficiency training: This focuses on re-establishing a positive association between bedtime and sleep by monitoring progress as individuals strive to enhance their sleep patterns.

• Mind management: Racing thoughts and worries can interfere with the ability to relax and fall asleep. Mind management techniques help address both daytime stresses and nighttime thoughts, preparing the body and mind for sleep.

• Practical relaxation techniques: Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation or mindfulness meditation, help reduce stress, strengthen resilience, and improve sleep quality. Sleepwell.today

Skin Deep

Skin Medical is Manchester's number one independent skin clinic, dedicated to enhancing confidence and wellbeing through cutting-edge treatments and personalised care.

Since its establishment in 2004, Skin Medical has been a beacon of excellence in the realm of skincare and medical aesthetics. Situated in the heart of Manchester, the clinic prides itself on providing top-notch consultations and treatments aimed at helping individuals regain confidence in their appearance and overall wellbeing.

Skin Medical believes in offering its clients the best possible experience. That's why it provides full consultations to understand your needs and offer tailored solutions. Moreover, the clinic is committed to providing competitive pricing, backed by a price match promise, ensuring accessibility without compromising on quality.

The clinic boasts a safe clinical environment, accredited by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), and staffed by skilled medical and clinical practitioners. The team utilises the latest technology and exclusively employ approved high-grade products, ensuring that you receive the highest standard of care.

One of the flagship services is the highly effective snoring treatment, overseen by the clinic’s ENT consultant, who is also a

specialist in the field. Using an established radiofrequency technique, Skin Medical offers a less traumatic alternative to traditional surgical methods, delivering comparable results with minimal discomfort to the patient.

The stop snoring surgery offers numerous benefits, including:

• Same-day, one-off treatment

• Cost-effectiveness compared to traditional invasive methods

• Long-term solution

• Minimal pain and discomfort

• Preservation of the uvula

Snoring is not an insurmountable issue. With this treatment, patients can expect a significant improvement in their snoring, leading to better sleep quality and overall wellbeing. Over 80% of patients report satisfaction with the results year after year, highlighting the efficacy of this approach.

In addition to snoring treatment, Skin Medical offers FUE microsurgery hair transplants, performed by experienced medical staff using the latest Direct Hair Implantation procedure. Choosing Skin Medical for your transplant offers numerous advantages. Situated in the prestigious St Ann's Square for over a decade, the clinic prioritises results over the quantity of treatments, ensuring a focused approach. With a painless procedure utilising only local anaesthesia, patients experience a pleasant journey towards transformation. Shaving the head is optional, accommodating individual preferences. The procedure boasts minimal downtime, allowing patients to swiftly resume their routines. Utilizing Direct Hair Implantation, Skin Medical guarantees natural-looking results while avoiding scarring and discomfort. Both extraction and implantation are performed by skilled

doctors, ensuring precision and expertise. The comprehensive 12-month journey includes renowned aftercare, resulting in natural and permanent outcomes. With a team boasting over 20 years of collective experience, Skin Medical offers a personalised and life-changing experience.

Skin Medical stands as Manchester's premiere independent skin clinic, dedicated to enhancing confidence and wellbeing through personalised consultations and cutting-edge treatments. Whether you seek relief from snoring, are looking for thicker, fuller hair, or want to partake in some of the many other treatments on offer such as antiaging, skin resurfacing, thread lifts or tattoo removal, the clinic offers comprehensive solutions tailored to your needs, backed by expertise in a safe and professional environment.

Book a consultation to embark on this transformative journey in the welcoming, family-run clinic.

Skinmedical.co.uk

info@skinmedical.co.uk

On Instagram @skinmedicalmanchester

FEMALE HAIRLINE

FUT REPAIR

Day Tripper

Take a day trip with a whole host of exciting things to do around town this month.

Players Kings | Manchester Opera House

14th to 23rd March

Sir Ian McKellen plays Falstaff in a new version of Shakespeare’s Henry IV Part One and Two. Adapted and directed by Robert Icke, the play combines the two great history plays which are set in a turbulent time in divided England. Prince Hal is learning to be a king, but does that mean leaving his friends, like the hard-partying Falstaff, behind?

Atgtickets.com

Peter Kay | Manchester AO Arena | 9th March

The continued latest tour of comedian Peter Kay is a great opportunity to share a laugh with your mates. The show revisits some of Kay’s classic routines with new touches and has a hefty dose of nostalgia. A comedian every northerner can relate to, seeing Peter Kay is a must-see opportunity.

Peterkay.co.uk

Paddington in Concert | Bridgewater Hall 7th April

A fun event for all the family, the first film in the Paddington series will be accompanied by a live orchestra. The second instalment of which matches Citizen Kane as the joint highest Rotten Tomatoes scoring film, is beloved my many children and adults alike and evokes the playful spirit of the original books by Michael Bond.

Bridgewater-hall.co.uk/whats-on/Paddington

EVENTS

RHS Urban Show | Depot Mayfield

18th to 21st April 2024

The RHS Urban Show is the UK’s first entirely indoor flower show. Hosted by The Royal Horticultural Society, organisers of the Chealsea Flower Show, aims to engage a new generation of gardeners who have previously been put off by a lack of urban opportunity.

Visitmanchester.com/event/rhs-urban-show

Manchester Film Festival 2024| Odeon Great Northern | 15th to 24th March

Manchester Film Festival displays a whole host of local and international talent on our screens again for the tenth time this year. Look out for some famous faces such as Ewan McGregor in Mother, Couch or Daisy Ridley in Sometimes I Think About Dying. Try individual films throughout its run or book a five-ticket pass for £30, a ten ticket pass for £50, or a full festival pass for £79 so you can attend whichever film you like, whenever you please.

Manchesterfilmfestival.com

Bagels and Flatbread Baking Class | Suga Kuchen | 20th March

Hosted by Room Forty Afternoon Tea, learn how to make traditional and authentic American bagels and Asian flatbread at this baking masterclass. This three-and-a-half-hour class will take your next brunch to the next level, as Room Forty explains: “It’s almost impossible to buy real bagels locally, (no, those 'authentic' bagels in the supermarket aren't authentic at all).”

Eventbrite.co.uk/e/bagels-and-flat-bread-baking-class

PHOTO: RHS, LEE CHARLTON

Mother's Day 10thMarch

Show your mum some love with inspiration from the global traditions and history of Mother's Day.

Spread the Love

Mother’s Day is celebrated all over the world to thank the amazing, strong women who raise us. As well as there being several different customs, the tradition of Mother’s Day has also developed and changed overtime. Though you may already have your own traditions in place, these global traditions can remind you how we started celebrating mothers and new ways to express your gratitude now.

Medal of honour

Mothers’ Day began in many countries as an award recognising women for birthing several healthy children during periods of low birth rates. In France during 1920, the French government created an official day dedicated to mothers of large families and awarded them with the Médaille de la Famille Française. In Germany during 1938, a similar award was introduced called Mother’s Cross (Mutterkreuz) and in Iran several women under Shah’s government were rewarded for birthing several healthy children.

Sing along

In Ethiopia the Antrosht festival, in early autumn, is dedicated to mums. After the hot weather breaks, families gather in their homes for a big celebratory meal where daughters traditionally brought vegetables and cheese while sons brought the meat. After the meal, songs and dances are performed and stories are told of family heroes. In Mexico, it is also customary to sing the congratulatory song Las Mañanitas to your mother on Mothers’ Day, either acapella or with a mariachi trio.

Pamper day

In Myanmar, Mothers’ Day is celebrated in the tenth month of the Myanmar calendar, on the full moon day of Pyatho (which

usually falls in January). It is traditional for those who live with their mother to give her special favours and a personal service like shampooing her hair. Children who don’t live with their mothers are expected to send postcards or call home to express their love and gratitude.

Party time!

In India, Hindus honour Durga, the goddess of mothers, during a 10-day festival which takes place in October. The festival, known as Durga Puja, is spent sharing food and gifts and even has household decorations to go with it. In Indonesia surprise parties and competitions are traditional on Mother’s Day, which is held on 22nd December. They also treat mum to a day off from housework!

Showers of flowers

In Japan gifting flowers, and doing it correctly, is very important. If you wish to follow Japanese customs perfectly you should rise early on Mother’s Day and greet your mum with a big bunch of flowers, specifically carnations. Red carnations are a popular choice as they symbolise a mother’s purity, sweetness, and endurance. Flowers are a common choice for Mothers’ Day all over the world with differing flowers in each country, white chrysanthemums are common in Australia while roses are more popular in Canada and Finland.

Hill’s

Bake On Bake On

Bakery is a traditional bakery offering a range of delectable takeaways with the same old school charm.

Established in 1912, Hill's Bakery is not just a bakery; it's a cherished institution steeped in history and community spirit. Founded by Owner Janet Hill’s Great Grandmother, who was part of the esteemed Hill biscuits family business in Ashton, the bakery has been a beacon of traditional confectionery delights in the area for generations.

In the heart of Hale, Hill's Bakery stands as a testament to resilience and dedication. Despite the challenges of reduced footfall in recent years, the bakery has remained steadfast, thriving even during lockdowns. While the village may have quietened recently, its commitment to crafting

exceptional baked goods has never wavered.

As the landscape of local businesses shifts, the bakery has adapted its approach, focusing on what it does best: baking. You’ll find more on the menu than just sandwiches. Instead turn your attention to a delectable range of takeaway treats.

Hale isn't just another village; it's a destination. From bustling bars and exquisite restaurants to an eclectic mix of business, the vibrancy here from year’s gone by will return as the council plans a regeneration programme set to re-ignite the village. Hill's Bakery is proud to be a part of the tapestry, offering well-beloved favourites

such as wholemeal hot cross buns, freshly baked bagels, and its signature barm cakes loved by the community.

Janet is not content to rest on her laurels. With a team of talented bakers brimming with ideas, Hill’s Bakery is eager to grow and expand its reach. Stop in at Hill's Bakery in Hale, where tradition meets innovation, and every bite tells a story.

Open Mon to Sat: 8:00am – 4:00pm

217 Ashley Rd, Hale, WA15 9SZ

0161 928 1309

Hillsbakeryhale.co.uk

FESTIVE SEASON

Or Ribon, UJIA/JAFI Community Shlicha, discusses the upcoming holy days and holidays.

This time of the year we gather to celebrate, commemorate, remember, and celebrate again.

Purim – where we were marked by Haman, Pesach – where we broke our chains and became a free nation. In the following weeks we will mark the Israeli Yom Hashoah – remembering another dark time in our past, the Holocaust, a horrible time from which we rose and formed a Jewish state in Israel. We will gather to remember every soldier and civilian who lost their life for that state, and Yom Ha’atzmaut – where we collect ourselves from the grief and loss –and celebrate our being, despite everything we have been through.

So many lessons we must learn from those festivals and days, but I feel like for the first time in my lifetime, we are in a way living all of them.

When I first imagined celebrating Purim – I thought, how will we be able to dress up,

With Marc Levy, Chief Executive of the Jewish Representative Council

As a community, we are at our strongest when we are united. The togetherness of the Jewish community has been unprecedented in recent times. This has been repeatedly referenced by the Chief Rabbi on his frequent visits to Manchester.

This feeling was harnessed by the JRC when we scheduled the March Against Antisemitism. Being able to read the communal mood is a prerequisite when running an effective representative body. We understood the need to build on the public display of resilience offered by the event in London. Despite the atrocious weather forecast, to have the largest ever gathering of our community in history highlighted the

dance and sing while our own people are still being held hostage in Gaza? How can we celebrate Pesach and Yom Ha’atzmaut while the survivors of 7/10 are evacuated and live like refugees in their own country?

And then I thought about it again, about the true meaning behind those days – days where we remember our past and constantly look toward the future with hope, and this hope, "Hatikva" – is in a way the centre of our being. The essence of who we are.

And while we celebrate, we keep lighting on our families to come back home, we remember what we have been through and how we always get up. And mostly, we remember that we are not who we are as a people because of war and prosecution – we are who we are because even within great despair, we remember our past, and for our future – we dance.

Ujia.org

Stronger United OUR COMMUNITY

strength of feeling.

We are fortunate to be able to rely on our friends in government and opposition. We had senior politicians showing their solidarity and this is something we cannot take for granted. We will also never forget the inspirational words from our communal leadership that were designed to ensure we remain confident and outward facing.

The march was carefully designed to portray a certain optic that we are proud British Jews. We wanted everyone to realise that we have pride in both the British and Israeli flags. This message was conveyed by walking through the city centre with our flags and banners. This was done in a dignified

and respectful manner and was noted by the council, emergency services, and those from outside our community who came to show their support.

All the speakers referenced antisemitism being an early warning sign that everything is not right with society. It gave us no pleasure to understand that we needed to arrange such an event. However, the sheer number of people who braved the weather warning and attended along with the atmosphere of defiance ensured this was an afternoon that will live long in our community’s memory.

Jewishmanchester.org

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

Celebratory events mark the 150th year of the Spanish and Portuguese synagogue at Manchester Jewish Museum (MJM).

This year the restored Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue at Manchester Jewish Museum celebrates its 150th anniversary. The synagogue, which was first opened in 1874, was recently renovated from 2019 to 2021 in a redevelopment project which cost £6 million. To mark the anniversary of its opening the museum will host a range of events, from live performances to family-friendly activities and workshops exploring the Sephardi culture and history which can be found in the synagogue. The first of these events included a concert from Graham Gouldman, a famed songwriter who wrote for many artists including The Hollies and The Yardbirds, all the profits of which went to support the museum’s work.

The culmination of the anniversary celebrations will take place in May 2024 during a Museum Open Day, to which the museum invites all of its audiences and communities. Entry will be free for anyone to visit and there will be an opportunity to try the new Sephardiinspired menu at museum’s award-winning café.

Gareth Redston, the museum’s Chief Executive said: “This anniversary is such

a special moment for us because it’s an opportunity to celebrate 150 years of people coming together on this site, both as a synagogue and place of worship, but also as a museum. It’s also our chance to thank all of the incredible people who have made it possible over the years and to be able to share that with our amazing audiences and the people that we work with here in the community.”

Designed by Jewish Architect, Edward Solomons, and inspired by the Spanish and Portuguese origins of its members, the synagogue on Cheetham Hill Road opened on 6th May 1874 and was the first Sephardi synagogue in Manchester (Sephardi Jews being those whose origins lie in Spain and Portugal).

Over the years the building has changed to reflect the needs of the congregation. By the 1970s, when the majority of the local synagogues had moved out of the Cheetham Hill area following the movement of the community, the Jewish Heritage Committee suggested creating a Jewish Museum to capture the disappearing history of Jewish migration and settlement in Manchester.

For the last 40 years the museum has served

to teach people about Manchester’s rich Jewish social history – from the thousands of school groups to the visitors that come through the doors. In 2019 the museum underwent its restoration which saw conservation experts, historic painters, and stained-glass specialists get involved in painstakingly researching and restoring the synagogue to its original decorative scheme, returning the Grade II listed building to its former visual glory.

This beautifully restored synagogue now serves as both a major museum exhibit, offering visitors a unique insight into a Sephardi Jewish place of worship dating back to the 1870s, and also as a stunning performance space in which the museum regularly hosts live cultural events, gigs, talks, shows, and concerts.

MJM is open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm with last entry at 4pm, For more information on the museum’s anniversary events go to its website: Manchesterjewishmuseum.com/season/150thanniversary

Dress to impress

Say yes to the wedding dress of your dreams with advice on shopping and fitting with Susan Hirst from Designer Wedding Dress Boutique, Bridal Apparel.

Your wedding dress is the most sentimental dress many women will ever buy, not to mention the most expensive. So, approaching shopping for your dress can feel daunting when it has to live up to all your hopes and dreams of your special day. Wedding Dress Designer and Boutique Owner, Susan Hirst, shares her advice on what to prepare for your first appointment and how to find the dress which suits you most.

What to expect

Going shopping for your wedding dress for the first time, there are some things

you can prepare for. Susan advises to bring with you a strapless bra so you can try on strapless dresses. You might also want to bring people for their advice on your dress, however Susan advises its best to keep this number of people to a small selection of your close inner circle, she says: “So, if you’ve got five friends, all your five friends will have different ideas and tastes about what they’d like for themselves and what they’d wear. If you’re going out with them, they’re looking at what they’d possibly like themselves. So, it can be very confusing if everybody’s giving their advice.”

Your Dress

You may go into your appointment having poured over wedding dress magazines for weeks, with an ideal style already in mind. But Susan advises to go into your appointment with an open mind, saying: “If you get too hung up on things like your body shape you might think to yourself ‘Oh, I’m not going to try that because it’s not going to suit me.'”

Instead of choosing a wedding dress you want to replicate from a magazine, Susan recommends to identify the elements you like about the dress she says: “Think, why? Why are you drawn to this?” Maybe you’ve fallen in love with the type of fabric, the neckline, or the romantic style of the dress. By selecting the elements of the dress you like, you can also identify what you’d like to avoid about that dress. This will lead you towards finding a better match when you’re in the shop. Remember, pictures in a magazine can be deceiving as to how that dress will look in person.

Perfect Pick

Susan says: “It’s all about what you feel comfortable in, but also what’s going to take you through the day of your choice.” Susan advises against following trends; trends come and go but your special day will last you a lifetime.

Instead, Susan advises you to think about the type of wedding you’re having and match the dress to the style of your day. Susan recommends If you’re having your ceremony in a converted barn, try a boho or rustic inspired dress; if you’re having a destination wedding, try something lightweight to withstand the heat and easy to pack; for a synagogue wedding, try something romantic with a full skirt and a train.

Bridalapparelleeds.co.uk

Upscale Your Wedding Catering

Chris Yates, Managing Director of Sisal, offers some tips to turn your wedding catering up a notch.

Creating an unforgettable culinary experience for your Jewish event involves creativity, attention to detail, sourcing quality ingredients, exceptional service, and a commitment to sustainability. All these elements and more, are the hallmarks of caterer Hessian and its exciting kosher counterpart, Sisal.

The companies bring experienced and exciting hospitality and culinary professionals together, under the meticulous eye of Managing Director Chris Yates, formerly of Northcote and Jamie Oliver restaurants. Working across the UK and Europe, his team delivers mouthwatering event menus with a side order for theatre, drama, and service.

Specialist kosher caterers, Sisal, channels style, flair, and gourmet experience into its Kosher menus. Under the supervision of the Beth din, Sisal offers an exclusive dining concept for weddings, Bar Mitzvah, and private parties. It’s sister, Hessian offers nonkosher catering for a wide range of business and private events, with its trademark exceptional presentation.

An exciting duo of new private dining companies that are making a name for themselves through innovative, elegant, event catering menus all presented with theatre and a flawless finish.

Here, the team at Sisal share some top tips for upscaling Jewish wedding catering in 2024.

Tastes of theatre

Good wedding catering is not just about taste. For a memorable event, you need to create theatre. Every plate, a masterpiece performance of colours, textures, flavours, and presentation.

Hessian is renowned for its colourful dishes that are not only bursting with flavour but awaken all the senses. Your catering should always be part of the overall aesthetic. Bring freshness and vibrancy to the room, as well as enticing aroma.

Create visually stunning displays for food stations and buffets. Use elegant and thematic table settings that complement the overall wedding decor. Use props and out of

the ordinary presentation - liquid nitrogen for example, can add an entirely new dimension to your wedding feast.

International influences

What sets Sisal apart from other kosher catering companies is the level of creativity, and finessed presentation. Plus, we like to give things a little twist of the unexpected.

For your wedding, why not surprise guests with unique dishes that incorporate creative variations on traditional kosher menus. Introduce international flavours that dance on the tastebuds to add colour and excitement to the dining experience. A fusion of Israeli with Italian, African, south American. A hint of spice to elevate the traditional plate.

Getting involved

Make the experience multi-sensory with interactive elements such as DIY dessert stations or customisable dishes that allow guests to personalise their culinary experience. Incorporate live cooking stations where your guests delight as chefs grill and flambe, exquisite, freshly prepared dishes.

Flip the sit-down dinner script

Incorporate distinctive styles of catering and world cuisine. You could opt for more casual dining such as street food dishes and food trucks. They are still immensely popular and add a less formal atmosphere to the celebrations.

Personal touches

Craft a menu that tells a culinary story, incorporating elements that are meaningful to the couple to add depth and significance to the dining experience. Personalised meus create a uniqueness to any wedding day... but add to this craft cocktails and drinks pairings to complement your unique menu, and it becomes unforgettable.

To find out more about Sisal kosher catering for your wedding day, visit our socials @sisalevents or email hello@ sisalevents.com

Picture Perfect

The wedding season is upon us, so whether you’re getting married or you’re a big day guest, with these formalwear recommendations you can go from day to night with sophistication and ease.

Roman | Sequin Twist Dress |£60

This sequin dress which comes in red and midnight blue, is a playful and celebratory piece – great for an evening reception. The twist detail near the neck gives the dress a beautiful statement feature, framing the face. Pair with silver shoes and accessories to compliment the sparkle of the sequins.

Roman.co.uk

Liberty | Ciara Gala Short Silk Dress | £300

Perfect for a summer wedding, this short but boldly patterned dress speaks volumes. Pair with a minimalistic hairband and straightened hair for a 60s inspired look or for opt for a more casual boho inspired updo to mirror the wild blossoms, flowers, and leaves in this print. This dress can be dressed up or down for any formal occasion depending on the accessories of your choice.

Libertylondon.com

Threadbare | Luxe Men’s Black Jersy Blazer | £65

For smart casual occasions and gatherings, this jersey blazer is a comfortable must-have. With a single-breasted button fastening, it has a notch lapel, two patch pockets, and darts to the front for a tailored shape. Layer over a shirt and add a well-fitting pair of trousers for a polished formalwear look or if your event is more casual, pair with dark denim jeans and a thin knitted tee or jumper.

Threadbare.com

Rebecca Rhodes | Tammy Gold Satin Jumpsuit | £212

This elegant jumpsuit is perfect for a formal look, taking you effortlessly from day to night. The glossy champagne colour of the satin is soft and will shine with gold, silver, or rose gold accessories to match the pink hue. Perfect for if you’re more comfortable in trousers than in dresses, this is definitely an option for a glamourous mother of the bride.

Rebeccarhoades.com

Marks and Spencer | Italian Moleskin Blazer | £56

Instead of going for the traditional black or navy why not add some warmth for this year’s wedding season with a chocolate brown? This single-breasted blazer is crafted from Italian pure cotton moleskin, it has a notch lapel and functional cuff buttons. Pair with a shirt and suit trousers for a more formal style, and match with dark brown shoes to tie everything together and really look the part.

Marksandspencer.com

Shining Stars

Get your big day just right with these top providers!

Paul Atherton Photography

Paul Atherton Photography provides comprehensive all-day coverage with two photographers, ensuring that every special moment is captured from start to finish. From the preparations to the tisch and bedeken, and through to the chuppah, reception, and family group shots, Paul ensures that couples can relive their wedding day for years to come. The flexibility to stay right to the end demonstrates their commitment to documenting every memorable moment from an experienced expert team, whose aim is to create a timeless visual documentary of love, tradition, and celebration that the couple and their families can cherish for generations.

Paulathertonphotography.co.uk/wedding-photographers

JS On the Corner

JS On The Corner, a beloved café on Bury New Road, has expanded its offerings to include catering services, complete with a versatile function room and drink all included in on price. Whether it's a wedding, Bar or Bat Mitzvah, engagement party, or any family simcha, JS On The Corner caters to all occasions. Customised menus tailored to individual preferences ensure a memorable culinary experience. With a function hall accommodating up to 120 guests, it's the ideal venue for celebrations big and small. Additionally, options for MH meat or chicken cater to dietary needs. Choose JS On The Corner for exceptional service and unforgettable events.

07756 288 111

Victoria Louise Videos

Videographer Victoria Louise provides a carefully crafted, meaningful video of your wedding day. Standing out in her field, Victoria will shoot an evocative film which allows you to relive one of the most important days of your life over and over again. With her experience in multicultural weddings, she can bring her elegant and romantic style of filming to any event. You’ll be able to see your wedding from different perspectives, as two different videographers will be filming on the day, ensuring no moment is missed, not to mention the drone for breathtaking aerial shots. With a trailer ready just 48 hours after the big day, and the full video within a month, you’ll barely be back off the honeymoon before you get to experience your wedding day all over again.

Vlvideos.co.uk/wedding-films

Beauford Wedding Car

Servicing all areas of the city, Beauford Wedding Car Hire Manchester is family business with years of experience and a range of vehicles to make your special day a day to remember. Make a grand entrance on your wedding day! The helpful, attentive chauffeurs will give you first class service and a slow romantic drive to the Chuppah, in the showstopping 1930s style Beauford open-top tourer, finished in ivory.

This elegant bridal car is accompanied by a modern Mercedes E Class for bridesmaids and family. The cars complement each other perfectly, decorated in ribbons and bows to match the colour scheme of your wedding.

If required, the chauffeur can open a bottle of bubbly after the service – a perfect photo opportunity for the newlyweds to toast their marriage with the vehicles in shot!

Beauford Wedding Car Hire can help plan all your transport requirements. Don’t forget to ask about the early booking discount!

View the cars by appointment only, with no obligation.

Contact anita@beaufordweddingcar.co.uk

Two photographers to document all day coverage of the ceremony and reception through to the evening celebrations.Contact me to discuss your unique wedding.

A timeless visual documentary of love, tradition, and celebration you and your family can cherish for generations..

loveisland

Don’t risk rain on your wedding day! Fly to sunnier climes to tie the knot.

A wedding is a celebration of love, commitment, and the beginning of a new journey together. What better way to embark on this journey than by exchanging vows in a picturesque destination? Destination weddings have become increasingly popular, offering couples the chance to tie the knot in stunning locations that add a touch of magic to their special day. Here, we explore some of the best destination wedding locations that promise unforgettable moments and breathtaking backdrops.

Santorini | Greece

Known for its enchanting sunsets, crystal-clear waters, and iconic white-washed buildings, Santorini is a dream destination for many couples. Imagine saying your vows against the backdrop of the Aegean Sea as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the entire island. With its romantic atmosphere and unique charm, Santorini is a top choice for couples seeking a destination wedding with a touch of something special.

Amalfi Coast | Italy

With its dramatic cliffs, colourful villages, and panoramic views of the coast, the Amalfi Coast is a romantic destination that exudes old world charm. Exchange vows in a historic villa overlooking the Mediterranean or in a quaint seaside town like Positano. The rich culture, delectable cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes of the Amalfi Coast make it a captivating location for couples looking to infuse their wedding with Italian elegance.

Gibraltar | British Overseas Territory

If you’re looking for a no stress destination wedding, Gibraltar is famed all over the world as one of the easiest places to get married, requiring you to simply file some paperwork at the governor’s office the day before. Known for its iconic rock formation, the peninsula offers a picturesque backdrop that seamlessly combines the beauty of nature with the richness of cultural heritage. Imagine exchanging vows in the lush botanical gardens, while the historic sites, such as the Moorish Castle and St. Michael’s Cave, add an extra layer of magic to your special day. The intimate and cozy atmosphere of Gibraltar, coupled with its breathtaking views, creates a distinct and memorable setting for a destination wedding that is both romantic and adventurous.

Kyoto | Japan

While it’s not Japan’s most famous city, for couples with a love for culture, tradition, and serene beauty, Kyoto is an exquisite destination wedding location. Known for its historic temples, traditional tea houses, and beautiful gardens, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. Exchange vows in a tranquil Zen garden or a centuries-old shrine, surrounded by cherry blossoms or vibrant autumn foliage. Kyoto provides a magical setting for couples who appreciate the artistry and elegance of Japanese culture.

Maui | Hawaii

Hawaii’s second-largest island, Maui, offers a diverse and stunning backdrop for couples seeking a tropical paradise. From lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls to golden beaches and volcanic landscapes, this spot has it all. Choose a beachfront ceremony with the sound of waves as your soundtrack or a mountaintop venue for panoramic views. Maui provides a laid-back yet luxurious atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for couples who want a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

LAUGH DANCE Party

The moment you say I do will be one of your most precious memories

Nestled within 200 acres of scenic woodland, our location, stunningly refurbished event spaces, bespoke packages and tempting 'Wish List' extras make us the perfect choice for your wedding venue

After the celebrations, retreat into newly refurbished accommodation with premium bedding, flat-screen TVs and free WiFi.

Here at Worsley Park, we don't just host events, we make memories DELTA

worsleypark

Greener Vows

Weddings often involve a plethora of single use items. Reduce the environmental impact of your big day as you embrace a greener future together.

Your wedding day is a momentous occasion filled with love, laughter, and memories to cherish forever. However, amid the joyous celebrations, it's easy to overlook the environmental impact of such events. From floral arrangements to décor and attire, weddings often generate a significant amount of waste. But fear not, there are plenty of ways to host a beautiful and sustainable wedding by embracing the ethos of recycling and repurposing.

Consider using décor items that can be reused or repurposed after the wedding. Opt for centerpieces made from potted plants or succulents that guests can take home as favours. Use reusable tablecloths, napkins, and dishware instead of disposable options, and break them out on special occasions like festivals or birthdays. Renting or borrowing these items can also reduce

waste and minimise costs.

Get creative with your wedding invitations and stationery by opting for recycled paper or upcycled materials. You can also go digital and send e-invitations to minimise paper waste. For a personal touch, consider DIY options using recycled materials or plantable seed paper that guests can later grow into flowers or herbs, boosting biodiversity and leaving a lasting reminder of the experience.

Instead of traditional floral arrangements for your bouquets and boutonnieres, which are often discarded after the event, choose locally sourced and seasonal flowers. After the wedding, donate the flowers to hospitals, nursing homes, or repurpose them by creating dried flower arrangements, potpourri, or composting them to nourish your garden.

Consider donating your wedding dress of suit after the big day, allowing it to create a happy memory for someone else. Or, if you want to keep hold of it, repurpose it into something new like a christening gown or heirloom keepsake, or hand it down through generations.

Try minimise food waste by accurately estimating guest numbers and serving sizes. Donate leftover food to local shelters or food banks, or arrange for composting to divert organic waste from landfills. Choose sustainable and locally sourced menu options to reduce the carbon footprint of your wedding meal and ensure a fresh and tasty meal that without climate guilt.

Instead of traditional wedding favours that often end up unused or discarded, give guests small plants, seeds, or homemade treats packaged in reusable or biodegradable containers. For a special touch, personalise the favours with a heartfelt note expressing your gratitude for their presence on your special day.

After the event, you could repurpose items such as décor, linens, and attire in to décor and keepsakes. Charity shops often accept wedding-related items for resale or reuse. Remember, every small step towards sustainability makes a difference, and your wedding day is the perfect opportunity to lead by example. Cheers to love, commitment, and a greener future!

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WIN A L UXURY S TAYOVER!

to win an overnight stay for two including dinner and breakfast.

The Mercure Blackbur n Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa is set in 17 acres of glorious parkland. This four-star hotel is a beautiful restored 700-year-old country manor house which retains many of its original features, including turrets, porticos, and a vast staircase, all helping to make any event extra memorable.

This stately location is the ideal place to celebrate any special occasion, especially a Bar or Bat Mitzvah. The Pendle Suite is the largest of the hotel’s exceptional event spaces, able to accommodate up to 300 people, meaning there’s no need to pick and choose which family and friends you’ll invite. The ballroom boasts a large dance floor and stage allowing you and your guests to dance the night away.

For a more intimate celebration, the Towneley Suite is ideal for those wanting to celebrate with up to 120 guests. Its private bar leads to a glamorous outdoor location for reception drinks and envy inducing photographs. This beautiful suite with windows on three sides is flooded with natural daylight making it the per fect picturesque to take those per fect Simcha snaps.

The Dunklaw and Garden Room is able to accommodate over 50 people for ceremonies and up to 60 people for banquets. This gorgeous space is part of the original building and feature a stunning fireplace and mirror, creating an elegant and stylish atmosphere for your event.

For a celebration that lasts well into the early hours, 175 bedrooms blend age-old comfort with moder n design and include one suite, three special feature rooms and enhanced accessibility rooms. All bedrooms are non-smoking and provide 24-hour room service, complimentary car parking, hair dryer, ironing facilities, facilities.

With top notch facilities including restaurant, spa and free parking, guests can extend their stay and build memories forever

For your chance to win an over night stay for two including dinner and breakfast, please answer the following question: H O

online at Jlifemagazine.co.uk/ competitions-5 or by post to JLife Ltd, Unit 7, Gemini Business Park, Sheepscar Way, Leeds, LS7 3JB.

Please ensure your entry includes your name, address, daytime telephone number, and email address. The winners will be randomly selected on the closing date: 19th April 2024

Ter ms and conditions apply: Prize is nonrefundable and cannot be exchanged. When entering the competition online you have the option to not be entered in JLife Magazine and Mercure Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa’s databases in order to be contacted about news, promotions, saved. Publisher’s decision is final.

Tie The Knot

Event Planner Juliet Shenderey of Shenderey Events offers some tops tips on planning your dream wedding.

Planning the perfect wedding should be a fun and exciting time for any couple. However, with so many options and ideas to consider, it can soon become overwhelming.

Knowing where to start can be daunting, but don’t let that put you off planning your special day. At Shenderey Events, we are here to support you, with five top tips to get your planning off to a great start.

Budget

There’s no denying it: planning a wedding, no matter what size, isn’t cheap. Before you dive into the details, you need to sit down and decide how much you and your family feel comfortable spending. It’s so easy to get carried away looking at other people’s plans and prices.

You can have an incredible wedding on any budget, but it may just take a little creativity to achieve. So, whatever your plans, make that budget – and stick to it!

Guest list

One of the biggest factors when deciding your budget is the number of guests you’d like to invite. The guest list has a direct impact on so many aspects of your big day, including your choice of venue, wedding date, and, of course, the cost of catering. It’s a good idea to make this list before putting the rest of your plans in place.

Prioritise

What matters the most to you? It might be the venue, or the caterer? Perhaps it’s entertainment, or flowers? Or maybe it’s the decorations? Every couple, and every wedding day, is different.

Though each individual part of your day is important in its own right, prioritising to decide what’s essential for you can help you to focus on the suppliers you’re looking at, and at your expenditure.

Good planning

For us, seeing a couple, their family and their friends relaxed and enjoying every moment of their big day is so important. After all, your wedding day is one of the most special days of your life, so it’s vital to keep stress to a minimum. An event planner takes the tension away by beginning at the planning process and leading you all the way to your big day, putting together a clear and logical schedule that helps you to focus on the most important decisions for the day. They will support you, assisting with suppliers, keeping you on budget, and creatively bringing those ideas to life. What’s more, a planner’s excellent relationships with suppliers can often save you money!

Enjoy yourselves! You’re in love, and you’re getting married. This should be a happy time, with minimal stress! Allow yourselves time to plan and prioritise, then relax and enjoy the experience.

On Trend

This year’s spring and summer collections are out! Update your spring summer wardrobe by catching up with this season's trends.

WHITE DRESSES

Et Vous Broiderie Dress | Matalan | £38

Though usually reserved for one special day, white dresses are making a statement on the runway this year. The simple shade gives a classic look to the garment and really allows you to choose fabrics which have elaborate details and patterns. This dress from Matalan has a clean-cut collar, buttons, a tie at the waist, and laser cut flower patterns but altogether it comes off as chic and minimalistic.

Matalan.co.uk

FLORALS

Tree Of Life Narrative Silk Square Scarf

Fable England | £80

Though floral patterns always come around every spring, this year’s catwalks are giving this predictable twist a groundbreaking twist. Instead of floral print on dresses why not try to incorporate flowers in new ways such as broches, a statement choker necklace, or in a luxurious scarf like this one from Fable England. Depending on the size of your scarf, you can wear it traditionally around your head, as a headband or headscarf, or tie it to your handbag strap to bring the details of your outfit together.

Fableengland.com

SHORTS

Linen Pleat Blue Short | Oliver Bonas | £25

Short shorts are officially in! Straying away from your typical denim, runways saw short shorts in several variations from tailored suit shorts worn with an oversized blazer, to colourful beach shorts. These pleated blue shorts from Oliver Bonas are easy to style for those wanting to experiment with shorts since the pleats can make it look like a skirt. Excellent for a warm day at the beach, these linen shorts are comfortable and more practical than a skirt.

Oliverbonas.com

CRAFT

Khaki Sleeveless Crochet Hem Midi Dress

Roman | £40

Craft fabrics and embellishments are taking over spring and summer fashion. This could be with a touch of embroidery, pom poms, feathers, or in crochet details like in this dress. Craft details can give your outfit texture and an unexpected flare depending on how out there you wish to go; you might be surprised to find that you already have craft details in your wardrobe in woven bags or wedge heels.

Roman.co.uk

SPORTSWEAR

Second Skin Leggings | Lola Starr | £70

Sportswear influences have continued in this year’s spring fashion. This year leggings, especially ones with a cropped hem, show a continuation of last year’s biker shorts trend. They can be worn to soften formal pieces like leather pumps or an oversized blazer.

Lolastarr.co.uk

See more photos on pages 10, 59, 62, 68, and 78

ALL PHOTOS: KATE SWERDLOW PHOTOGRAPHY

MARNIE AND ALICE JACKSON RECENTLY CELEBRATED A JOINT BAT MITZVAH AT HALE SHUL.

MARNIE POSED AT THE AFTERPARTY… …AS DID ALICE!

MUM AND DAD, VICKY AND MIKE, AND LITTLE SISTER SADIE JOINED THE GIRLS TO CELEBRATE.

EVERYONE HAD A BALL AT THE AFTERPARTY.

THE AFTERPARTY TOOK PLACE AT STOCK FARM BARN, TATTON PARK.

THE GIRLS REACHED NEW HEIGHTS DURING THE HORA.

AND SADIE HAD A TURN TOO!

WHILE THE ADULTS HAD A BLAST AS WELL.

Sports

Repetitive

Arthritic

• Deformity Correction for Toes (Bunions)

• Achilles Tendon Rupture

• Ankle fractures

• Keyhole Joint Surgery

• Sports Injuries

• Arthritis Treatment

• Tendonitis

• Heel Pain

• Toe & Ankle Joint Replacements

• Joint Injections

• Regenerative Therapies

• Foot Arch Correction

• Ingrowing Toe Nails

Same day consultations and virtual consultations available 07592 994 404 contact.footclinic@gmail.com www.manchesterfootankle.com

When the pain of a bunion interferes with daily activities, or an injury is stopping you getting on the go, come in for a consultation and together we can decide if surgery is best for you. Appointments available at: BMI Alexandra Hospital

and rapid recovery.

This advanced, bespoke technique delicately harvests individual hair follicles, ensuring a seamless and natural-looking result, restoring not just your hair, but your confidence too. Plus

YourShade

Finding your colour season can help you buy clothes and makeup you’ll never fall out of love with.

Colour seasons aren’t new, but they’re experiencing a recent buzz online with many influencers going all the way to Korea to get a colour analysis to see which colours would best suit them. Though it can be tricky to nail it down, you can do it all at home without the need to jet set off to Asia.

Colour seasons explained

12 individual colour palettes which correspond to a person’s unique colouring in their skin tone, hair, and eye shade. Divided into summer, spring, autumn, and winter, the summer and winter seasons are for cool skin tones (identifiable by whether you have blue veins on your wrist, or you suit silver jewellery) and autumn and spring are for warm skin tones (identified by green veins on your wrist, or whether you suit gold jewellery).

It's trending

Finding your colour season is like always having a personal stylist with you while you shop; you’re less likely to impulse buy clothes and the items you do buy you can be certain will suit you. The concept is trending on social media is because many of us can live our lives being drawn to colours

which don’t suit us, creating an amazing transformation in our appearance when we find the right ones so you can wear colours which make you the focus of people’s attention rather than those that don’t let your natural features shine.

At home

Several online videos break down the concept of colour seasons really well, we recommend watching Ellie Jean Royden’s Body and Style YouTube channel for simple but in-depth guidance on colour seasons with great examples. If you want to do an at home colour season analysis, for best results have a group of friends help you so you can analyse each other, this will make it easier for you to be objective about your own appearance.

The professionals

If you’re willing to devote some budget to it, you can have a colour season analysis done by a consultant near you. In this appointment they’ll ask you to attend with no makeup or fake tan and if you have dyed hair, to let them know what your natural hair colour was. They’ll drape several coloured fabrics below your face to determine which colours bring a fresh, bright look to your complexion and make your eyes pop.

Colour analysis consultants in the area

Styled in Colour

A verified Colour Me Beautiful Consultant (the UKs leading colour analysis service) Jill Clark can advise you on a range of subjects from colour analysis to personal shopping and wedding makeup.

Styledincolour.co.uk/colour-analysis

Claire Watkins Personal Styling

Claire will teach you how colour can have a psychological effect on your wellbeing and confidence all while teaching you how to pick the right colours for you from her home in Altrincham.

Clarewatkins.com

Emma Taylor

Emma Taylor is a verified House of Colour stylist who will help you find the right colours to make your eyes shine and your skin radiant. She also has personal style services to help you find your true style.

Houseofcolour.co.uk/stylist-profile /emma-taylor

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

TOP MARKS!

The Manchester Grammar School celebrates Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis KBE’s visit and record-breaking Oxbridge offers this year.

The Manchester Grammar School recently had the honour of hosting Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis KBE for its annual Jewish Society Lunch. The event brought together current pupils, staff, Old Mancunians, family, and friends to celebrate the accomplishments of the MGS Jewish community over the past year.

Year 12 pupil Jack, a Jewish Society Chair for the 2023-24 academic year, revealed the meticulous planning involved in overcoming challenges posed by the Chief Rabbi 's schedule. The team, adapting to schedule adjustments, successfully organised the Jewish Society Lunch one month earlier to accommodate his availability. Despite tight time constraints, the team's efforts ensured a successful event, showcasing their commitment to delivering a meaningful experience.

The occasion commenced with a welcome speech from Hannah Salomon, the Jewish Society liaison. Chief Rabbi Mirvis commended

the school's commitment to protecting the Jewish community and praised the events hosted by the Jewish Society, emphasising the school’s supportive environment that respects and celebrates faith. He underscored the significance of unity within the Jewish community. The event also included a delightful Kosher meal, providing a platform for meaningful conversations and connections among attendees.

Reflecting on the visit, Jack highlighted the thriving Jewish Society at MGS. He acknowledged the numerous weekly events organised by the society, fostering an understanding of the diverse aspects of the Jewish faith. Notable among these events was a recent talk by Holocaust survivor Ike Alterman, emphasising the society's dedication to educating younger generations about Jewish history.

In other recent news, pupils at The Manchester Grammar School have been highly successful in securing offers from the Universities

of Cambridge and Oxford. A total of 25 pupils have received offers from Cambridge and Oxford, solidifying MGS’s position among a very select group of top academic schools nationally.

The School’s High Master, Dr Martin Boulton, said: “MGS pupils have been highly successful in applying to top universities in the UK and abroad. In 2024, we are delighted to be celebrating 25 of our pupils securing offers to study a wide range of academic courses at Oxford or Cambridge, including Archaeology and Anthropology, Computer Science, Earth Sciences, Economics, Engineering, German and Russian, History, Italian, Medicine, Natural Sciences and, Physics and Philosophy. The application process remains challenging and requires a high level of commitment; I would like to congratulate our pupils on their success.”

Mgs.org

SITARA DAVIES MGS

World Book Day is upon us on 7th March! Here's how you can set up your own book club at home for adults and families.

Read Up!

Getting most adults to a book club will be challenging, but a great way to bring family members or friends together is to set up a mini version at home. Invite your chosen few and put a new spin on the regular question and discussion format.

Read different books

This may seem like a counterintuitive move – but a new spin on book club is to have a common author but anyone can read any book they’d like. Not only does this engage people who don’t want to read the book which has been selected for them, but it changes the usual format of a book club from focusing on plot and characters towards the narrative techniques of the author and how they’ve developed across several books.

Adaptations club

Is “the book was better” always the first thing to leave your lips after watching a book to film adaptation? An adaptation book club allows you to explore just that. This type of book club is for the detail orientated debaters; it will take you onto subjects of written and visual techniques, genre, lore, and fan-base knowledge.

Go audio

If your book club members are a group of busy people who don’t have much time to read, then this could be the book club opportunity for you! Your audiobook allows you to listen on the go, better yet, it will usually tell you how many hours the story takes so you can effectively schedule your next meeting. Not only can you discuss the text in an audiobook club, but you can also ponder the impact of the narrator on the story and if it changed your perception of the book.

Inviting children to start reading for pleasure and separating it from their reading at school is important to raise a new generation of bookworms. Reassuring them that they don’t always have to understand parts of the stories or pick them apart and analyse them like they do in class will help them to trust their own instincts, interests, and passions when reading.

Where to start

Let them select a book which is within their reading abilities – a good website for this is BookTrust, its Bookfinder section separates books into age groups all the way up to 12+ and gives you a range of book themes to help you filter your options. After giving your child time to read set some time aside and create a cosy environment to chat about their book. Answers could be via a creative medium such as drawing pictures.

Questions

1. Why did you choose this book?

2. If the main character in the story went to your school, would you want to be their friend?

3. What does the place in the book look like in your imagination? Do you want to go there?

4. Who was your favourite character and why?

5. What was the most interesting part of the book?

6. Did the book end the way you thought it would and would you have ended it differently?

7. If you could change one thing in the book, what would it be? Worldbookday.com

Garden Paradise

Jane Mary garden bench | £475

As the weather begins to brighten up, get your garden ready for sunnier days with some fun additions.

Solar garden lanterns | £39.95

Brighten up your garden with these solar garden lanterns — colourful and striking, these light features will bring a chilled-out boho vibe to your space. You can use them as tree decorations, hang them from a pergola, or place them on a stand on the floor or as a table light. Both a hanging hook and a table stand come with the lantern, making styling and installation easy.

Sparkle.lighting

This gracefully designed and crafted bench makes a great addition to your outdoor space. With soft curves on the seat and back for comfort adding to the bench’s charm and style, the piece comes pre-assembled with all non-visible dowel fixings. Seating up to three people, you will adore this bench for years to come.

Joalexander.co.uk

Black wood herb garden wall planter | £60

This large wall planter is a fun way to showcase your plants, liven up a dull wall, and create a fun display. Give your plants a home of their own in our house-shaped wooden wall planter. With two shelves there's plenty of space for all your favourite smaller plant pots. Whether it's to create a herb garden, a bee-friendly flower garden, or a space to let your succulents grow, your plants are going to feel at home! It's also great for smaller outdoor spaces and balconies, where you don't have space to spare for large plant pots.

Funky-chunky-furniture.co.uk

Pent wooden garden bar | £1,120

Convert your garden into a versatile outdoor entertainment space by adding this simple but stylish bar. Made using dip treated shiplap cladding the natural look blends in and could even be assumed to be a shed when closed up, allowing for a showstopping reveal. It features a solid top bar and has two bi-fold shutters that open easily to create a serving hatch. With access from the side, its modular design means the door can be fitted on either end of the building.

Diy.com

hammock | £36

Kick back on a sunny day in this stylish garden hammock. This hammock adds an understated, elegant touch to your garden this spring. The dark charcoal colour looks stands out when teamed with brightly coloured linen and velvet cushions. The hammock has wooden spreader bars which make it easier to get in and out of and help it to dry faster after a sudden rain shower.

Ellajames.co.uk

Curtain Raiser

Fabrics of Chester offers beautiful blinds, shutters, and curtains, from its newly condensed showroom.

Chester, including Find A Blind, has been established for an impressive

years. Originally operating as two

showrooms since opening in Prestwich, the business has recently consolidated into one space just next door, making it easier than ever for customers to explore their wide range of offerings.

Founded by current owner Jamie Kay's grandfather, Henry Werner, Fabrics of Chester has been a family affair from the very beginning. Passed down through generations, the business has upheld a

tradition of quality and service that has stood the test of time.

Conveniently open Monday to Friday from 11am to 4pm, Jamie welcomes visitors to explore the showroom at their leisure. With a comprehensive catalogue on display, customers can browse an extensive selection of curtains, blinds, and shutters to suit any style or preference.

One of the standout features of Fabrics of Chester is its commitment to customer convenience. Offering free home visits across Manchester, the team goes above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of the experience is tailored to the customer's needs. Additionally, the shop boasts its own dedicated car park at the rear of the showroom.

The shop also has a dedicated workroom and experienced installations team, ready to bring your vision to life. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, the team takes pride in

delivering exceptional results with every project.

A true trailblazer in the industry, Fabrics of Chester has been at the forefront of innovation for over two decades. Its specialty in plantation shutters, offered long before they became a mainstream trend, speaks volumes to the business’s foresight and expertise.

For those readers who would be thinking about buying online, Jamie offers a free home measure, advice and an oldfashioned personal service impossible to get from the internet and as Jamie says: “When you are buying furnishings for the home, it is critical to look at and feel the full range of choices on offer – which can only really be done in a showroom environment."

So whether you're looking to refresh your home or embark on a complete transformation, Fabrics of Chester is your one-stop destination for all things fabrics and blinds. Step inside the showroom today and take the first step towards creating a space that reflects your unique style and personality.

Findablind.co.uk

0161 773 7171

Mum’s The Word

Following on from her sold-out 2022 Synagogue Nights show, Noga Ritter is soon to return to Manchester with a newly released album, Ima. With songs sung in both Hebrew and English, Noga weaves intimate and personal stories into a compelling narrative of social-global issues. Her performances are passionate and energetic, getting any audience to dance and join in on her soulful journey!

Having already performed at the Manchester Jewish Museum, Noga is excited to return to the venue, as she told us: “There’s just something about the venue itself. Everything is really embracing; you have the opportunity to engage

Ahead of her performance at Manchester Jewish Museum, we speak to Noga Ritter about her debut solo album, Ima.

with everybody there and the museum feels very real. Last time I was there we collaborated with the song writing community a few weeks before I performed my concert. I shared a bit of the songwriting process for one of my songs, and then inspired by the theme of that song we created a new song together and they came up on stage and played it with the band, which was really special.”

Ahead of this performance, Noga has also held a different kind of creative workshop before the show: “This time, we were inspired by the process of making the cover, which was me working with an amazing body painter. I basically just sent her the music and a translation of the lyrics and she got inspired and did her own thing. At the workshop they did the same thing. We chose one song and I explained the meaning of it and the story of how my grandma appeared in my dream after she passed away, which the song is about, and then there was drawing and painting on a massive piece of paper, which people will be able to see at the show.”

The album, Ima, which means mother in Hebrew, is Noga’s debut solo album dedicated to her mother: “It’s been a journey and long in the making. I was really fortunate to have funding from Arts Council England. While I was recording it, life turned around at me when mum was diagnosed with cancer while I was in the studio. It was a really violent one that progresses very quickly. I stopped everything to do with the album and went to Israel to spend time with her there. Then she passed away and

I decided to call the album Ima and dedicate it to her.”

Ima takes influence from Noga’s life and travels, combining her life experiences together: “I think the album represents my journey, which started growing up in Israel, with influences from the Jewish and Palestinian cultures there. And then I moved to Berlin when I was 21, where I got into jazz, and then was inspired by West African music when I moved to London. It’s a mix of encounters and stories.”

Noga Ritter Trio will be performing at the Manchester Jewish Museum on 10th March. Be prepared to join in singing and dancing! Book tickets here: Manchesterjewishmuseum.com

PHOTO: JOHNATHAN TROTMAN

PHOTO: JOHNATHAN TROTMAN

6,500 attended the Manchester March Against Antisemitism organised by the Jewish Representative Council (JRC) in January.

Step Up

The Jewish community and their allies came together on 21st January to march against the recent surge in antisemitic hate crime. There were 6,500 in attendance, constituting the largest gathering in the history of the Greater Manchester Jewish community.

The community is having to endure an unprecedented surge in hate crime directly stemming from the terrorist atrocities committed in Israel on 7th October. Across the region, the Jewish people have been subjected to appalling abuse, physical attacks, and desecration of property. Jewish schoolchildren and university students have been forced to conceal their identities while the City Centre has effectively been turned into a no go zone most weekends due to overt antisemitism on anti-Israel marches.

As a result, the JRC arranged a March Against Antisemitism to highlight the issues being faced, emphasise that the Greater Manchester Jewish community is strong, vibrant, and proud to be British while facilitating the opportunity for wider society to

publicly stand in solidarity with Jewish people.

The speeches were chaired by the government’s Independent Adviser on Antisemitism, Lord Mann and included Securities Minister, Tom Tugenhadt MP, Deputy Leader of the Labour Party, Angela Rayner MP, Co-Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Antisemitism, Nicola Richards MP, the Chief Rabbi, Sir Ephraim Mirvis KBE, Chair of the JRC, Mark Adlestone OBE DL, President of the Board of Deputies, Marie Van de Zyl OBE and Auschwitz Birkenau Survivor, Ike Alterman BEM.

Mark Adlestone OBE DL said: “I am proud of our community for coming together in this powerful manner to state loud and clear that we will not be intimidated by those who wish to do us harm. We have lived in our wonderful city for generations and will continue to be proud British Jews who proactively contribute to our society. I would also like to thank the many people from outside the Jewish community who continue to stand in solidarity with us during this time. Their support is valued and appreciated.”

MP and Securities Minister, Tom Tugenhadt’s speech focused on the rise in crime: “Over the past few months, we’ve seen an unacceptable increase in antisemitic hatred an

abuse. This government has zero-tolerance for antisemitism. We are working with the police to ensure that hate crime and the glorification of terror is met with the full force of the law. I am proud to stand with Jewish communities across the UK today and always.

The Chief Rabbi, Sir Ephraim Mirvis, KBE thanked the 6,500 attendees: “Thank you to the thousands of people who gathered today in Central Manchester to stand against anti-Jewish hatred. Today’s march sent the strongest possible message that unity and understanding are our strongest allies against prejudice. Greater Manchester has a proud tradition of communities who are united by respect and shared values. Today, we saw people of all backgrounds come together to affirm their commitment to facing down antisemitism wherever it is found.”

ALL PHOTOS: LAWRENCE PURCELL PHOTOGRAPHY

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

MERSEY MEMORIAL

Leaders from the Muslim Jewish Forum of Greater Manchester visited Sefton Council's Holocaust commemoration event.

Back in January, Sefton Metropolitan Borough Council (in conjunction with the Association of Jewish Ex-Service Men and Women, and Sefton UNISON) organised a Holocaust Memorial Day commemoration event held in Christ Church on Lord Street, Southport, with the theme of "The Fragility of Freedom." Two members of the Executive Committee of the Muslim Jewish Forum of Greater Manchester, Co-Chair Cllr Heather Fletcher and Executive Committee Member Qaisra Shahraz, travelled to Sefton to speak at the event.

The Master of Ceremonies was Michael Braham DL of Southport Synagogue. The speakers included Rev Ben Dyer of Christ Church who gave a prayer at commencement, Damien Moore MP, Pauline Collier, Holocaust Fellow of the Imperial War Museum, Cllr Heather Fletcher — Forum Co-Chair, Qaisra Shahraz, Forum Executive Committee Member and founding director of MACFEST

And Rabbi Moshe Perez, one of the visiting rabbis at Sefton Synagogue, who recited the

memorial prayer. Also present were Vice Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside Robert Owen JP DL, the Mayor of Sefton Cllr June Burns, and Peter Dowd (MP for Bootle).

Cllr Fletcher said at the event: “How do we preserve freedom today? I believe that often genocides start through mass ignorance. It is ignorance which gives rise to intolerance and bigotry. We all have a duty to challenge all bigotry and racism at the outset as it does not take much for this kind of rhetoric to develop into discrimination, segregation and ultimately genocide. We should ensure that the voices of the tolerant be the clearest and loudest voices.

“To conclude, I believe that we can help to preserve our freedom by becoming a more cohesive and harmonious society and this can be achieved by people of different faiths and cultures mixing together, getting to know each other, and forming friendships. We need a society where it is second nature to mix with other people whose way of life, faith and culture may be different to our own. I believe this can

happen. As Anne Frank said: ‘I believe that in spite of everything people are truly good at heart.’”

Qaisra Shahraz said: “I learnt about the Holocaust during our Muslim Jewish Forum’s visit to the concentration camps in Birkenau and Auschwitz – it transformed my life – I was simultaneously traumatised and dehumanized by the experience – visiting the gas chambers, the halls with remains of human hair and shoes of victims – it was so, so distressing – I came away telling my family that they had to visit.

“I witnessed the pain of our friend June whose relatives had perished in those gas chambers. As an author – I was compelled to write a story about the Holocaust. it’s in this book – entitled Train to Krakow. It is about a young pregnant woman called Ella –travelling to Krakow with her daughter and mother – little realising she was heading for the chambers.”

Take the Plunge

These destinations offer some unique experiences to pair with your trip.

Catching some rays on a beach is all well and good, but if you’re looking for a more action packed holiday, the varied landscapes and cultures of Europe have a lot to offer. From wellness retreats to adrenaline inducing jumps, try something different this year.

Killin, Scotland – White Water Rafting

For the adrenaline junkies among us, Killin in Scotland stands as a haven for white water rafting. Traverse the untamed rivers of the Scottish Highlands, including the Falls of Dochart, where rushing waters and stunning landscapes create the perfect backdrop for an exhilarating adventure. Professional guides will lead you through challenging rapids, ensuring an adrenaline-pumping experience for both beginners and seasoned rafters. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of this rugged region while conquering the thrilling currents.

Interlaken, Switzerland – Paragliding

Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Interlaken (the Adventure Capital of Switzerland) is a dream destination for those who crave the ultimate paragliding experience. Soar through the crisp mountain air and take in panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and serene lakes below. With expert instructors, even first-timers can enjoy the thrill of freeflying, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Interlaken’s stunning landscapes and the rush of paragliding make it a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts seeking a bird’s-eye perspective of Switzerland’s natural wonders.

Cinque Terre, Italy – Hiking

For those who prefer exploring on foot, the breathtaking coastal trails of Cinque Terre beckon. Located on the rugged Italian Riviera, this UNESCO World Heritage site boasts a network of scenic hiking paths that connect the five colourful villages. Take a leisurely stroll along the cliffside trails, offering spectacular views of the azure Mediterranean Sea and charming terraced vineyards. Cinque Terre offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquillity, making it an ideal destination for hikers of all levels.

Blue Grotto, Malta – Cliff Diving

Discover the thrill of cliff diving in the Mediterranean gem of Malta, where the azure waters of the Blue Grotto invite adventure seekers to take the plunge into a world of underwater wonders. Carved by nature into the limestone cliffs, the Blue Grotto provides the perfect setting for an exhilarating cliff diving experience. As you stand on the precipice, gazing at the breathtaking sea caves and arches, the anticipation builds before you dive into the crystal-clear waters below.

The cliffs surrounding the Blue Grotto offer various heights suitable for divers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned thrill-seekers. The vibrant underwater world, with its marine life and hidden caves, adds an extra layer of excitement to your adventure.

Ibiza, Spain – Wellness Retreat

Though better known for its vibrant nightlife and lively atmosphere, Ibiza also offers a serene escape for wellness enthusiasts. Embrace the holistic lifestyle with world-class wellness retreats that focus on rejuvenating the mind, body, and soul. From yoga and meditation sessions overlooking the Mediterranean to spa treatments that pamper the senses, Ibiza’s wellness retreats provide a harmonious balance to the island’s energetic vibe. Experience the transformative power of relaxation against the backdrop of Ibiza’s stunning landscapes, making it the perfect destination to unwind and recharge.

Barcelona, Spain – Foodie Tour

Indulge your taste buds in the gastronomic paradise that is Barcelona, a city where culinary artistry meets rich cultural traditions. From the bustling markets of La Boqueria to the Michelin-starred restaurants scattered across the city, Barcelona offers a foodie experience like no other. Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Catalan cuisine, where savoury tapas, seafood paella, and delectable churros with chocolate await your discerning palate. Join a food tour through the historic streets, savouring the unique flavours and aromas that define Barcelona’s culinary identity. With its diverse and mouthwatering offerings, Barcelona stands as a must-visit destination for those seeking a true feast for the senses.

Egg-citing Times

As Passover approaches, we find out about the meaning of eggs and check out some sayings behind the beloved protein.

First thing’s first, why is the egg on the seder plate each year? The short answer is that it stands as both a symbol of mourning for the destruction of the Temple, and a symbol of hope and renewal. Eggs, being the beginning of a new life cycle for the chicken, have long been a symbol of fresh beginnings across cultures. Just don’t ask us which came first!

While the subject of whether the chicken or the egg came first is a popular philosophical question, we know that eggs came long before humans did, and we’ve been eating them for the entirety of our history. As for domesticated fowl, that came quite a bit later on. The first recorded proof of domesticated birds as livestock were jungle fowl in India in 3,200 BC. Records in China and Egypt show that fowl were domesticated and laying eggs for human consumption around 1,400 BC, while the eggheads at University of Oxford state that they weren’t domesticated in Europe until 800 BC, and not in North America until the second voyage of Columbus in 1493.

EGG-CELLENT SAYINGS

A good egg –a nice person.

A bad egg / a rotten egg –an unpleasant person. To have egg on your face –to be very embarrassed because of something you said or did. Nest egg –a sum of money saved for the future.

You can’t make an omelette without breaking a few eggs

Something is hard to achieve without consequences elsewhere.

Teaching your grandmother to suck eggs

Since eggs have been around as long as we have, it’s perhaps no surprise that they’ve even ingrained themselves in our language, with a fair amount of common expressions centring around eggs. Collecting them all is a tricky task, but you can’t make an omelette without breaking a few eggs, so we’ll take a crack at it.

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket

giving advice to another person in a subject which they’re already familiar with.

Egghead –a highly intellectual or studious person.

To egg on –

To strongly encourage someone in a bad idea.

What do you want, an egg in your beer? –

Wanting something for nothing.

Freedom With Purpose

Rabbi Fabian

Sborovsky of Menorah Synagogue discusses the significance of freedom at Passover.

With Pesach falling later in the spring due to the leap-year, we find ourselves with a little more time to think about and prepare for our Festival of Freedom. There is much anticipation, and so much on our to-do list as well: ridding our homes of all traces of chametz with the ultimate of spring cleanings, shopping for kosher for Pesach foods, preparing for the seder, and of course the cooking of delicious traditional Pesachdik foods.

There is an irony that a festival celebrating freedom requires so much work, preparation, and attention to every detail so that we can observe it in the proper way. But is all the meticulous work not contrary to the spirit of being released from bondage, some argue? Are all these restrictions and meticulous control not reminiscent of shackles, they ask? What sort of freedom can all these regulations celebrate? The answers, require an exploration of the key concepts behind the festival celebration.

In our liturgy, not only is Pesach referred to as Chag HaMatzot, festival of unleavened bread, but also as Zman Cherutenu, the festival of our freedom. At the Seder we begin telling our story by pointing at the matza and declaring Ha Lachma Anya (this is the bread of affliction), to explain its purpose during the seder. Soon to be

followed by joyful singing declaring ‘Avadim Hayinu, ata Bnei Chorin’ – ‘we were slaves [avadim], but now we are a free people! [bnei chorin]’ reflecting the Hebrew word cherut for freedom. Interestingly, however, the words cherut, or bnei chorin, do not appear even once in the entire Hebrew Bible. The biblical word for freedom is chofshi, used in the context of a slave going free, a person who can do what they like, with no one to tell them what to do. The word chofshi is perhaps more familiar from ‘Lihiyot am chofshi be’artzenu’ to be a free people in our land in Hatikvah, the Israeli national anthem. Another biblical word for freedom, liberty, or release is d’ror. We find it in the context of the Jubilee year in Leviticus 25:10 ‘You shall proclaim liberty [d’ror] throughout the land for all its inhabitants’. D’ror connotes a release from specific debts and responsibilities. But to describe the concept of freedom at the heart of what it means to be a Jew the rabbis chose a different word, cherut. Unlike the freedom of chofesh, which implies doing what one likes, cherut is freedom with a purpose, as in G-d’s message to Pharaoh: ‘Let My people go that they might worship Me’ (Exod. 9:1). Cherut is the freedom the Israelites acquired at Mount Sinai, in the form of a covenant.

Pirkei Avot, one of the most well-known writings in Rabbinic Judaism, illustrates this point with some word play. Interpreting the biblical verse: ‘And the tablets were the work of God, and the writing was the writing of God, graven [charut] upon the tablets (Exodus 32:16), it states: ‘Read not charut [graven] but cherut [freedom]. For there is no free person but one who engages in the study of Torah’ (Pirkei Avot 6:2).

Cherut denotes freedom with a purpose, to be free to bind ourselves to God and an obligation to higher ideals. Crucially, it assumes engagement, connectedness, and study. Cherut is a freedom dependant on our obligations and interconnectedness over mere individualism.

It may not be so ironic after all that we have to invest in our freedom with work and preparation. When it comes to our annual Pesach preparation, as well as our search for chametz, let us be more conscious of the way we express our Jewish bonds of freedom and liberation, of peoplehood, responsibility, and connectedness not only to each other but to a shared humanity and all who still long to be free.

Chag Cherut Sameach!

Jungle Book Mask Making | Aviva Studios

Sundays until 31st March

Inspired by its upcoming production of the Jungle Book, Aviva Studios invites children and families to get involved in its free drop-in sessions and create their own Jungle Book themed crafts. You can make a tiger, monkey, or black panther mask, or try your hand at a finger puppet which you can use its very own finger puppet theatre. Create the jungle of your wildest imagination in a collage and while you’re there you can contribute to the Jungle Book colouring mural. Fun for all children, there’s even jungle-themed sensory play trays for under twos. Factoryinternational.org

The Wizarding Adventure | Bury | 3rd April

Join East Lancashire Railway for a two-hour steam train ride from Bury to Rawtenstall and back which will take you to its spellbinding school of sorcery, Wizard Academy, to learn the skills it takes to become a wizard. Learn the basics of broomstick lessons, practice your potion making, and even learn how to talk with a tawny owl. A perfect adventure for students aged five to 12 but all are welcome to enrol. Food and drink can be purchased from the café on Platform ¾ at Bury Bolton Street Station.

Eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Kidz Bop Never Stop Live Tour | Manchester Opera House

7th April

Make memories which will last a lifetime with the whole family at this kidfriendly pop concert event. Great for introducing your little ones to live music without the hustle and bustle of a stadium Kidz bop’s music is also entirely child friendly so you won’t have to worry about any profanity or age-inappropriate subjects when singing along. Performing today’s biggest hits including AntiHero, As It Was, Green Green Grass, Trustfall, and many more.

Atgtickets.com

There’s

a

Monster

in

Your Show

| Z-arts | 29th to 30th March

Tom Fletcher’s book, There’s a Monster In Your Book comes to life in this interactive children’s show. A group of actors are preparing to start their show when they realise they’re not alone… Little Monster wants to join in on the fun too! Expect comedy and chaos for the whole family learning about the joy of books and friendship. A 50-minute performance featuring original songs and music, this is the perfect show to introduce your little ones to the theatre.

Z-arts.org/events

Eureka! The National Children’s Museum | Halifax

23rd March to 14th April

There’s three weeks of Easter half term activities to enjoy, and even better, all shows activities are included free with admission. Every year on 22nd April the world comes together on Earth Day to celebrate our planet, to promote climate change action and encourage others to protect our environment. You can become Eco Explorers as it focuses on our amazing planet Earth and what we can do to help look after it through hands-on activities, storytelling sessions and creative crafts. Take part in fairandfunky SCRAPtastic workshops and create a piece of Spring themed art using only recycled materials; become Eco Warriors with Heifer Productions and find out how to look after our green spaces; and visit the Climate Action Trail to see how climate change is affecting different habitats and the positive things we can do to help combat this.

Play.eureka.org.uk

This Easter break there’s a whole host of exciting activities around Manchester for the whole family to enjoy.

With Dr Sabir at Hilton House Medical

In the realm of women's health, practical and informed choices are fundamental for maintaining optimal wellbeing. Hilton House Medical, a distinguished private GP practice, is committed to offering actionable advice to empower women across the UK in managing their health effectively.

Regular medical check-ups form the bedrock of preventive care. Routine screenings for breast and cervical cancers, coupled with assessments for hormonal balance, allow for early detection and timely intervention. These proactive measures significantly contribute to long-term health outcomes.

Women's Health: Practical Insights for Wellbeing HEALTH AND WELLBEING

Nutrition, a pivotal aspect of women's health, plays a crucial role in hormonal balance, bone health, and overall vitality. Emphasising a diet rich in essential nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids is practical advice. Maintaining a healthy weight and steering clear of excessive processed foods and sugars are actionable steps to mitigate the risk of chronic diseases.

Physical activity is a non-negotiable component of women's health. Regular exercise not only aids in weight management but also positively influences cardiovascular health, bone density, and mental wellbeing. Practical recommendations tailored to individual health profiles ensure effective and sustainable fitness routines.

Mental wellbeing is a critical yet often overlooked aspect of overall health. Practical interventions such as mindfulness practices,

stress management techniques, and seeking support when needed play a vital role in maintaining mental health.

Reproductive health discussions at Hilton House Medical encompass more than family planning, offering practical information on menstruation, menopause, and fertility. Understanding reproductive milestones equips women to make practical decisions about their health.

In the realm of women's health, practical knowledge is empowering. By staying informed about practical health practices and adopting a proactive approach to wellbeing, women can optimize their health and lead fulfilling lives. Hilton House Medical is dedicated to providing practical insights that contribute to the overall wellbeing of women in our community.

Hiltonhousemedical.co.uk

KING DAVID PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN EZRA LOWE, ASHER RADNOR, SUMMER NEWMAN, AND AUTUMN BASGER PLANTED AN APPLE TREE TO CELEBRATE TU B’SHEVAT.

A FEW DAYS LATER THE YEAR 6 PUPILS LIT CANDLES FOR HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL DAY.

DAVID DELEW, CEO OF THE NICKY HELD A DISPLAY OF FRUIT FOR THE HIGH SHERIFF, MARY-LIZ WALKER WITH NICKY MEMBER MRS EILEEN SOMMER, WHO CELEBRATED HER 101ST BIRTHDAY IN FEBRUARY.

CHIEF RABBI SIR EPHRAIM MIRVIS VISITED THE SMALL HILLOCK SHUL IN WHITEFIELD.

MANCHESTER KING DAVID PRIMARY SCHOOL HOSTED A REGIONAL ROBOTICS

EVENT

WHO POSES HERE WITH MEMBERS OF THE ROBOTICS CLUB, SEE PAGE 9 FOR MORE.

One Life

Elaine Bermitz reviews One Life, a biopic about the man who organised the Kindertransport from Czechoslovakia in WW2.

According to Judith Gordon, Chair of the UK Jewish Film Festival, when the late Barbara Winton, daughter of Sir Nicholas was approached about making “One Life”, she would not have given permission for the film to be made unless Anthony Hopkins played her father in his later years. This was back in 2014, just before Sir Nicholas died aged 106. No wonder then that it took another nine years before the film was released. Anthony Hopkins agreed and her father’s part in freeing 669 children from the Nazis in what later became known as the Kindertransport was set to be told in film.

Based on Barbara’s own book “If it’s Not Impossible” and co-starring Helena Bonham Carter, as his mother, “One Life” focusses on the young Nicholas’s (Jonny Flynn’s) realisation of these children’s terrible fate had he done nothing at the request of his friend, Martin Blake, who summoned him for help. Winton, a German of Jewish descent whose family had been naturalised British citizens in 1874 and lost their Jewish identity,

responded by returning home from the office in Czechoslovakia to negotiate for their transportation to the UK.

Alternating between harrowing scenes of his colleagues who remained in constant danger from the Nazis, heart wrenching footage of children nursing orphans, families torn apart traumatised and unable to trace their siblings and the young Nicholas and his mother, the terrible story unfolds of the events before the German’s annexed the whole of Czechoslovakia in March 1939.

Germany’s intentions were not yet acknowledged by the UK authorities, who insisted on each child being sponsored by individual families who would be willing to provide a home and to pay £50 (£2,500 now) toward the cost of returning the children at a later date. In addition, they were to be provided with documentation of their identities, an almost impossible task for those back in Prague, overwhelmed by more and more children fleeing for their lives.

The latter part of the film concentrates on

the mental stress Sir Nicholas went through, dwelling on those he had been unable to save, until in 1988 when Esther Rantzen, in an emotional piece on the popular TV show That’s Life, revealed exactly how many children he had saved in the transports and how many others wouldn’t be alive had he not helped their parents In a quite remarkable transformation a quiet but haunted hero whose only record of his deeds had been a briefcase containing a record made for one of assistants on the project –unopened by him for 50 years – allowed his beneficiaries to acknowledge his deeds, and for him to be rightly honoured by the Czech, British, and Israeli governments.

A superb film, brilliantly directed and acted, both for the connected or for every movie lover.

To become a member of ukjewishfilm contact Ukjewishfilm.org

SIR ANTHONY HOPKINS IN THE FILM’S LEADING ROLE.

THE FILM’S INSPIRATION, SIR NICHOLAS WINTON.

Go Girl

In honour of International Women’s Day, Julie Burniston looks at the history of the event and some community heroines.

8th March marks International Women’s Day (IWD), 24 hours dedicated to honouring the achievements, contributions, and progress made by women around the world.

IWD has grown into a global movement, with individuals, organisations, governments, and communities participating in events, discussions, and initiatives which contribute to the ongoing fight for gender equality.

The day also offers a moment to reflect on the progress made in advancing women’s rights and equality while acknowledging the challenges that still persist. It serves as a call to action to address gender-based discrimination and promote inclusivity across all walks of life.

The evolution of International Women’s Day

IWD has roots in the early 20th century when women worldwide mobilised for their rights, marking a transformative chapter in history. Originating from the labour and women’s movements in North America and Europe, its inaugural National Women’s Day on February 28th, 1909, orchestrated by the Socialist movement in the United States, evolved into the globally recognised March 8th celebration.

The purpose of International Women’s Day

IWD is a multifaceted platform with diverse objectives. It celebrates achievements by acknowledging women’s contributions, raises awareness about gender-based challenges, and advocates for change, calling for policy reforms and challenging stereotypes. The day also inspires unity on a global scale,

emphasising inclusivity in the pursuit of gender equality.

Moreover, it promotes empowerment, encouraging women to stand up for their rights and fostering a profound sense of self-worth.

Annual themes

Each year, IWD adopts a theme reflecting current global challenges and priorities in women’s rights. These themes guide discussions, events, and initiatives, creating collective momentum for positive change. The theme for this year’s IWD is ‘Inspire Inclusion’, which urges all individuals to collectively forge a more inclusive world for women, to understand and value women’s inclusion and to inspire women themselves to be included.

Our community heroines

As the world unites to celebrate the achievements of women, it’s crucial to shine a light on influential female figures who have made a significant impact, both globally and within local communities.

JLife spotlights some of the Jewish women from the north who have played pivotal roles in fields ranging from arts, and culture to business and politics, academia, social activism, and beyond.

Manchester icons

Arlene Phillips: Hailing from Prestwich, Arlene Phillips emerged as a groundbreaking choreographer in the 1970s. Her dance troupe, Hot Gossip, gained notoriety for their daring and, for those times, provocative dance routines. Later in her career, Arlene became a beloved figure as the amiable judge on the Strictly Come Dancing panel. In 2009, her departure from the show ignited a conversation about age discrimination against women, humorously leading her to be dubbed ‘Arlene-Phillips-66’ by the press, underscoring the frequency with which her age was juxtaposed with her name.

Emmeline Pankhurst (1858 – 1928): A luminary of the suffragette movement, Emmeline Pankhurst was a beacon of resilience and determination. Founder of the Women’s Franchise League and the Women’s Social and Political Union, she played a pivotal role in the struggle for women's voting rights. Pankhurst's unwavering commitment sparked a global wave of activism, leaving an enduring legacy of courage and leadership.

Maisie Mosco (1924 – 2011): Born in Oldham in 1924, Maisie was a prominent Jewish teacher, editor and writer who left an indelible mark on the city's cultural landscape. With 16 novels and numerous stage plays to her name, Mosco enriched the literary world. Her role as editor of the Jewish Gazette solidified her as a chronicler of the Manchester Jewish community, preserving its stories and heritage for generations.

Louise Ellman: Manchester-born Louise became the Labour MP for Liverpool Riverside. As the chair of the Jewish Labour Movement and vice chair of Labour Friends of Israel, she was unafraid to confront critics of Israel in both Parliament and the media, as exemplified by her spirited exchange with author Michael Morpurgo on BBC's Newsnight.

TALI EFFORTLESSLY DELIVERED HER DROSHA TO GUESTS ON HER SPECIAL DAY.

PHOTO:

SHE WAS JOINED BY FAMILY AND FRIENDS AT WHITEFIELD GOLF CLUB.

PHOTO: BEN GARDNER

RAFI GARDNER CELEBRATED HIS BAR MITZVAH IN JAMAICA!

PHOTO: BEN GARDNER

THE FAMILY SPENT TIME WITH THE RABBI AND REBBETZEN FOR FRIDAY NIGHT SHABBOS DINNER AND SHABBOS LUNCH AFTER RAFI DELIVERED A FLAWLESS MAFTIR AND HAFTORAH.

PHOTO: BEN GARDNER

THEY CELEBRATED THE GRAND OCCASION IN THE SUN BEFORE CONTINUING THEIR HOLIDAY FUN IN ORLANDO.

PHOTO: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

TALI SHAY RECENTLY CELEBRATED HER BAT MITZVAH!

THE VENUE HELD A SPECIAL SIGNIFICANCE TO THE FAMILY AS IT WAS A CHABAD HOUSE BUILT IN THE MEMORY OF HIS STEPFATHER’S LATE BROTHER, RAYMOND DOWDECK, WHOSE HOUSE WAS THE FIRST TEMPORARY CHABAD HOUSE IN THE COUNTRY.

ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: ROB CLAYTON PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO: BEN GARDNER

PHOTO: AZRIELI CENTRE, TEL AVIV

Ofer Fohrer, Head of Economic and Trade Mission to the UK Embassy of Israel, discusses the impact of the war on Israel’s economy.

Keeping Going

The war in Gaza has understandably impacted how Israeli businesses operate and hugely affected the country’s economy. We spoke with Head of Economic and Trade Mission to the UK Embassy of Israel, Ofer Fohrer, to understand the impact: “The outcome of the war in Israel had different effects. The first one was the IDF had to recruit the reservists. In Israel, soldiers who finish their service in the army continue reserve duty up until they are 40, 45 if they are officers. Around 100,000 were called for return duties, many in their 20s to 40s and employed, either by a business, their own business, or are self-employed. So that immediately impacted the economy since companies had to deal with their employee’s absence.”

Ofer explained how the businesses have coped “The solution, specifically for tech companies, was to allocate the tasks of the people who were mobilised to the people

who were not. In this way, they were able to keep up with their deadlines and make sure that the projects they were working on were continuing as usual. Technology is really the locomotive pushing the Israeli economy forward, and a slowdown could have devastating effects on the economy. Instead, the sector really showed its resilience.”

Despite turbulence at the moment, the Israeli start-up investment market is still booming: “I received information yesterday that start-up investment in the first quarter actually increased. So investors – many of whom are not Israeli, mostly coming from the US, Europe, and Asia – have confidence in the resilience of the Israeli tech economy.”

The reservists are now gradually returning, but that doesn’t mean that things are back to business as usual for Israeli companies: “As the war drags on, many reservists are going back to ordinary life. It’s not easy for many of them, heading back from the realities of

the war to day-to-day life. Companies are obviously aware of the challenges they are facing. Many of them are looking into the option of allowing the reservists time to absorb getting back into daily life, but on the other hand, they also need to get the business running as usual. Many companies have halted recruitment of new employees, waiting to see how the economy is developing and how they are able to reabsorb reservists into the team. And if they want to bring in new employees or even promote existing ones, they need people there to guide them.”

The Israeli government is also funding a furlough scheme to allow businesses to support returning reservists: “Many retail employees are on a furlough scheme. The government pay their salaries for a limited duration. It’s the same scheme that was used during the pandemic.”

BUSINESS NEWS

Local Carer Nominated for National Award

Angela Marsh, has been nominated by Home Instead as one of three finalists in its national Care Professional of the Year award, crediting her commitment to clients and thanking her for stepping up when her clients are in need.

The annual award, run by home care company Home Instead, recognises its care professionals across the country who are providing exceptional home care and making a real difference to the lives of their clients. Angela was selected as a finalist from a pool of 255 franchise offices and 12,000 Home Instead care professionals across the UK.

Angela joined Home Instead Salford in April 2017. Having been a carer for her mother, she was keen to work in home care and make it possible for local older people to remain living in the comfort of their own homes if they require care.

Nominated for the award by the owner of Home Instead Salford, Susan Robinson, Angela was recognised for her commitment to always go the extra mile for her clients. A story that particularly stands out is when she helped one of her clients, who was a Holocaust survivor, to write a book and arranged for her to go into a local school to talk about her life and some of the challenges she overcame to inspire young people.

Climate Saving Tech Gets Big Investment

FreezeM, an agri-tech pioneering biotechnology company based in Nahshonim, Israel, that offers Breeding-as-a-Service (BaaS) for Black Soldier Fly (BSF) protein factories, announced today the closure of $14.2 million in Series A funding. This innovation plays a vital role in boosting insect protein production capacity for livestock and pet food while implementing a circular economy, conserving precious global farmland, and reducing ocean depletion.

The funding will be used to accelerate the growth of the company's breeding hubs network and commercialise its novel solutions at scale, accommodating the rapidly increasing market demand. The funding round was led by a group of industrial investors and the prestigious European Innovation Council Fund (EIC Fund), along with FreezeM's existing investors and partners. FreezeM aims to simplify BSF reproduction and increase protein yield through the supply of its PauseM product to BSF protein producers, tapping an estimated $3.96 billion market by 2033 according to Meticulous Research forecast.

Anxiety Improving Drug Exported

Hadassah University Hospital in Jerusalem will study PEX010, Filament's botanical psilocybin drug candidate, for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Filament Health Corp, a clinical stage natural psychedelic drug development company, recently announced that it has successfully completed an export of PEX010 to Israel. The shipment is believed to be the first botanical psilocybin to be exported to Israel.

The hospital will study PEX010 in a clinical trial examining the effects of psilocybin for treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder (TR-OCD) and treatment-resistant post-traumatic stress disorder (TR-PTSD): "There is a growing need for research into mental health conditions like TR-PTSD and TR-OCD, and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy shows significant promise for treating both of these conditions," said Dr. Ronen Segman, Associate Professor of Psychiatry.

Locally and in Israel

Security Provider Announces Results

Allot Ltd., a leading global provider of innovative network intelligence and security solutions for service providers and enterprises worldwide, recently announced its unaudited fourth quarter and full-year 2023 financial results.

The UK company with headquarters at Hod Hasharon, Israel, announced fourth quarter revenues of $24.3 million and full-year 2023 revenues were $93.2 million.

Town Centre Securities Welcomes New Addition

Leading property development and investment company, Town Centre Securities PLC (TCS) has announced a recent appointment.

Victoria McLeod brings more than 20 years’ experience to her position as Area Operations Manager at TCS and will be overseeing key sites across the business’ extensive portfolio in both Manchester and Leeds.

With a proven track record, Victoria has played a key role in maintaining, progressing and growing business strategy across city regions and has been instrumental in developing partnerships, driving new business growth and overseeing various aspects of property management.

Craig Burrow, Group Property Director at TCS expressed his excitement at the expansion of the team said: "We are thrilled to welcome Victoria to the TCS family. Their extensive experience, dedication to excellence and proven track records align with our commitment to delivering outstanding results.”

Israeli Company Receives Grant to Tackle Disease

Sequentify, a Rehovot-based company specialising in DNA sequencing technology, has been granted funding by the Israel Innovation Authority (IIA). This grant, contributing to a project totalling $1.3 million, supports the development of Sequentify's targeted sequencing panel for infectious disease research. The panel aims to provide a culture-free, next-day solution for sequencing pathogens, focusing on pathogen diagnosis and antibiotic resistance surveillance.

Tamir Biezuner, Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Sequentify, commented on the grant: "We are grateful for the recognition and support from the IIA. Infectious disease is a complex field, and Next-Generation Sequencing is still emerging in this area. This grant will be instrumental in advancing our research and development, helping us to provide timely and efficient solutions in pathogen detection."

Sequentify's development of this sequencing panel reflects its ongoing commitment to contributing valuable tools for infectious disease research and management. This initiative is a part of Sequentify's efforts to enhance the utility of its ultra-fast InfiniSeq technology in the realm of infectious diseases, aligning with the company's broader commercial goals.

Get in touch with us at our Manchester Trinty Way branch on 0161 233 9202

For two days from 5th to 6th March, you can immerse yourself in the knowledge of top UK business leaders, and join the conversation about today’s industry, tech, sustainability, and diversity subjects which will form the business landscape of years to come. Following the footsteps of the successful Climb 23 last year, connect with potential investors and partners at the event which saw 150 active investors on its exhibition floor, or soak up the atmosphere and look for inspiration you can implement in your own business with over 220 speakers in its education programme.

Already a long-awaited comeback from last year’s inaugural event, Karen Brooks from Setsquared said: “One of the most stimulating, diverse, and different conferences we have seen… roll on Climb 24!” If you also just can’t wait until this year’s event, then you can get your fix by listening to the Climb podcast. Found on the Climb 24 website and on Spotify, the Climb podcast tackles subjects for keen impact-led founders and investors with fascinating insights from entrepreneurs on a mission to create positive change. Previous episodes have included, Balancing Sustainability and Profitability with Evan Maindonald, From Redundancy to a £100 Million Exit with Ian Fishwick, and How Shutting Up Can Make You a Better Business Leader with Dan Lyons.

Get your tickets for the Leeds Dock event at Climb24.co.uk

THE

are

accountancy

“ ” Murray

Patt, Founder

Westgate

hello@alexanderknightaccountants.co.uk alexanderknightaccountants.co.uk

What should you do if

Being the subject of an investigation by HMRC can be highly stressful and expensive. However, there are ways to minimise the risk of being selected and ways to handle an enquiry from the taxman professionally.

Late filing, delayed tax payments, and errors in tax returns can all trigger some form of scrutiny by HMRC. Inconsistencies or significant anomalies between different returns, such as a significant decrease in income or costs, may also prompt a probe.

Businesses can typically expect to be reviewed once every five years, with investigations into VAT returns and employer company records being the most common targets.

A business type may be targeted if it is considered a ‘high-risk industry’. HMRC may also act on a confidential tip-off.

What may trigger an investigation by HMRC?

As well as spotting obvious errors, submissions such as self-assessment returns, PAYE submissions and company tax returns are reviewed by HMRC for unusual activity or anomalies.

Other areas include R&D Tax Credits claims. For example, we are aware that HMRC is picking off companies for inspection based on their SIC code at Companies House. It would be good to review whether your current SIC code (usually assigned when you first set up your company) is current, accurate and whether it falls into a ‘higher risk’ type of business sector.

What happens?

A routine HMRC review often starts with a letter to the taxpayer requesting more information. This might be as simple as clarifying a specific aspect of a return. Sometimes, full records may be requested if HMRC consider it appropriate.

Most minor investigations can be dealt with by letter or email and in many cases are conducted remotely. But it could get time consuming.

If you receive a query or a letter from HMRC – don’t panic! In my experience, most tax investigations can be resolved quickly. While it is tempting to deal with the response yourself, you should get professional advice. Alexander Knight & Co offers our clients an insurance policy which covers the cost of professional support throughout any investigation.

Genuine mistakes will generally result in only the additional tax and interest to be paid.

Where behaviour is identified as careless, or HMRC considers it has found tax avoidance, penalties may be applied, which may be significant.

Get your accounts right first time

Nobody wants to get caught up in a tax investigation which is why we place great importance on ensuring returns are accurate, compliant and timely.

Give your business the best chance of avoiding an investigation by getting your accounts compliant and accurate in the first place. Contact Murray Patt on 0161 980 8788 or murray@alexanderknightaccountants.co.uk

A Fresh Take

We check in with Nigel Tobias a few months after taking over as Chief Executive of the

Nigel Tobias has taken over as Chief Executive of the British-Israel Chamber of Commerce North West (B-ICC), replacing Gideon Klaus who held the position for 28 years. The aim of the B-ICC is to encourage trade between Britain and Israel, as Nigel explains: “The B-ICC tries to help either British companies wanting to do business in Israel, or Israeli companies wanting to do business in the UK. We try to bring them together and help wherever possible.”

Since taking over as Chief Executive, Nigel has begun taking steps to grow and modernise the organisation: “The B-ICC is a membership forum and you can join as an individual or a business. We’re currently in the process of refreshing the website. The idea will be that all of our members will have access to a drop-down box and information by category of all the other members, be they in the UK or Israel.”

The B-ICC aims to facilitate trade between the UK and Israel in a variety of ways, including providing direct assistance to individual businesses: “For instance, we have a Midlands-based engineering company who have been approached by an Israeli company who wanted to do business. We’re trying to help. The English company has asked if we knew anybody who could help with the legal issues and who spoke English and Hebrew, and we’ve been able to help with that. It’s also important to state that we don’t charge for that aid. The B-ICC is a non-profit so we don’t have for things like that, it’s just the membership fee.”

Though Gideon has stepped down from his role as Chief Executive, he’s still around to offer Nigel advice and support: “Gideon and I are quite good friends. He’s given me a great deal of advice and given me some introductions which might have been more

challenging for me. He’s asked me to carry on the work that he’s done for over 25 years. We’ve refreshed the board and are focusing on increasing bilateral trade and on soft advocacy. He doesn’t live too far from me and often pops around for a cup of tea.”

Nigel will also be furthering ties with other similar organisations, such as UK Israel Business (UKIB) Northeast, originally also part of B-ICC, based in Leeds and overseen by Colin Glass OBE: “Colin approached me a few months ago, just after I had taken over and kindly invited me to one of UKIB’s breakfast meetings to speak to the audience where I introduced the B-ICC Manchester. It’s certainly my intention that we work much more closely with like-minded colleagues over the Pennines because I do not see why we wouldn’t.”

Bicc-nw.org

FOLLOWED BY A RESIDENTIAL TRIP TO GHYLL HEAD IN THE LAKE

THE BELOVED AND EXCEPTIONAL, MARIANNE PHILIPPS, HOLOCAUST REFUGEE AND MY VOICE STORYTELLER CELEBRATED HER 100TH BIRTHDAY AT THE FED!

MARIANNE HAS SPOKEN TO HUNDREDS OF SCHOOL CHILDREN AND STUDENTS ABOUT HER EXPERIENCES DURING THE WAR YEARS AS PART OF MY VOICE’S EDUCATIONAL AIMS.

LAST YEAR, IN RECOGNITION OF HER DEDICATION TO HOLOCAUST EDUCATION, MY VOICE TOGETHER WITH YAD VASHEM UK, COMMISSIONED A BRONZE BUST OF MARIANNE BY SCULPTOR FRANCES SEGELMAN.

CAMP SIMCHA RECENTLY HELD ITS LARGEST EVER RETREAT, WITH VOLUNTEERS BENJI SHEBSON AND MICHAELI PLANCEY BRINGING THE EVENT’S SPACE THEME TO LIFE.

BURY & WHITEFIELD PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS ENJOYED A SCHOOL TRIP TO THE CINEMA TO SEE WONKA.

DISTRICT.

THE STUDENTS GOT TO PARTAKE IN LOTS OF FUN OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES!

HIGH-QUALITY CARE IN A CARING COMMUNITY

Belong Morris Feinmann is a vibrant care village combining high quality 24-hour support and advanced dementia design to maximise independence and choice, facilitate active lifestyles and promote wellbeing.

0161 804 4200

Specialist dementia and nursing care

Small households create a homely setting

Free Admiral Nurse service for customers and their family

Modern apartments enabling people to live independently with support

Please get in touch to find out more and arrange a personal tour.

www.belong.org.uk enquiries@belong.org.uk

Village facilities include bistro and salon, open to the public

Gym with specialist equipment to improve wellbeing

Specialist day care service in the village hub

Award-winning home care service providing support and companionship

Belong Morris Feinmann | 178 Palatine Road, Didsbury, Greater Manchester M20 2UW

Mum’s the Word

Mother’s Day is just around the corner on 10th March! Spoil your mum with our top gift picks.

Liberty, Charbonnel

Et Walker Chocolate Hamper | £195

This deluxe chocolate hamper is the ultimate food gift for mums with a sweet tooth, featuring a mouth-watering array of tempting treats. Filled with delicious treats including Milk Chocolate Sea Salt Truffles Mini Heart, Milk Chocolate Sea Salt Thins, Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramel Truffles, and Sea Salt Almonds, this array of luxury chocolates will show mum you care. It even comes in a gift box topped with a charming blue ribbon, so no need to wrap! Libertylondon.com

Edible Flowers Seed Kit | £17.43

If your mum has a bit of a green thumb, check out The Little Veggie Patch Co’s Edible Flowers Seed Kit—a delightful Mother’s Day gift that transforms her garden into a palette of flavours! This kit isn’t just about pretty blooms; it’s a journey into the world of edible flowers that turn ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences.

The package includes planting instructions, a green-thumb guide, biodegradable propagating pots, and reusable plant labels provide a personal touch, creating a ‘Who’s Who’ of the flower world. Thedesigngiftshop.com

Skincare Gift Set | £42

Make a personalised gift with this customisable skincare gift set. Choose from three natural moisturisers, three natural facial serums, and three natural bath, body, and massage oils. Some of our recommended options include Rose & Frankincense Anti-Ageing Moisturiser, Lavender & Geranium Rebalancing Serum, and the

Frankincense, Myrrh & Orange Bath, Body, and Massage Oil, but with so many fantastic options, it’s difficult to choose!

Shaloahskincare.co.uk

Flow Silver Earrings with Mother of Pearl Drops | £65

Help mum celebrate Mother’s Day in style with these exquisite silver earrings —a statement piece that effortlessly transitions from the elegant brunch to the cosy family dinner. The textured silver discs are adorned with delicate leaf shapes. Some leaves catch the light with accents of 24-karat gold. The silver discs gracefully frame the most beautiful motherof-pearl drops in a soft salmon hue. Iridescent and shimmering, these earrings are more than just jewellery — they’re a tribute to the glamour she effortlessly adds to every aspect of life.

Thebritishcrafthouse.co.uk

Mothering Sunday by Sara James | £8.99

For mums who are a bit of a bookworm, why not surprise them with a Mother’s Day themed book?

In this novel, on Mother’s Day Alexandra Abbott’s now elderly mother, Elizabeth, reveals a secret that she has kept buried for over 50 years...

April 1963: Aspiring artist Kitty Campbell has recently given birth to her first child in a mother and baby home. Kitty is to give her baby away for adoption but, when the day comes, she can’t bring herself to part with her tiny daughter. In desperation, Kitty flees. She stops at a tea shop to feed her hungry baby and meets the owner, Bet – a mother with her own heartache to bear. But Bet is kind to Kitty, holding the baby and offering a listening ear.

Then Kitty makes a decision that will change all their lives for ever. Several decades later, can the truth from that day finally right the past and bring a mother and daughter together?

Laurenceking.com

The Magic of Books

In honour of World Book Day on 7th March here are some recommendations of great books coming out this month to try out.

The Story Collector | Iris Costello| Penguin | 29th February

Table For Two | Amor Towles

Penguin Viking | 2nd April

Three women. A long-buried secret. The story that could free them all…London, 1915: Tarot reader Katerina is trying to hold her life together amid the wartime chaos. When she opens a bakery that offers divination alongside sweet treats, she is hailed as a beacon of hope. But Katerina is hiding a dark truth that could cost her everything. Germany, 1918: A mute British soldier is taken to a prisoner of war camp where he meets Miriam, a researcher. She is drawn to his gentle manner and secretly vows to help him. But soon she will have to make an impossible choice: will she save the one she loves, or herself? Cornwall, present day: Recently widowed Edie is astonished to discover a mysterious box hidden in the wall of her newly renovated cottage. As Edie starts to investigate, she uncovers a secret that has lain hidden for over a century…The Story Collector tells the story of three people, divided by time and circumstance yet bound by a long-held secret.

How to Solve Your Own Murder

Kristen Perrin | Dutton | 26th March

In 1965 teenage Frances Adams is at an English country fair when a fortune-teller makes a prediction that one day Frances will be murdered. Frances spends a lifetime trying to solve a crime which hasn’t happened yet, compiling dirt on every person who crosses her path in an effort to prevent her own demise. In the present day when Frances is found murdered, sixty years after the fortune teller foretold, Annie Adams has been summoned to a meeting at the sprawling country estate of her wealthy great-aunt Frances. Determined to catch the killer, Annie sets to find Frances’ murderer using her lifetime of evidence and it seems every endearing and eccentric villager might just have a motive for her murder.

From the author of A Gentleman in Moscow is a new collection of short stories set in New York. The New York stories are six stories, most of which are set around the year 2000, which take up everything from death-defying acrobatics of the male ego, to considering the consequences of brief encounters, and the delicate mechanics of compromise that operate at the heart of modern marriages. Written with Towles’ signature style and wit, Table for Two is a delightful addition to his works of all-consuming and transporting historical fiction.

Funny Story | Emily Henry Penguin 25th April

Daphne always loved the way Peter told their story. How they met, fell in love, and moved back to his hometown to begin their life together. Too bad it turned out to be more of a prequel to Peter's actual love story with his childhood best friend, Petra. So that's how Daphne's next chapter starts: stranded in a too-small town, propositioning Petra's heartbroken ex to move in. As roommates of course. A temporary solution until she gets a new job literally anywhere else. Miles is the exact opposite to Daphne, and it's mostly just unbearably awkward until one drunken night. A tenuous friendship formed, Miles convinces her to give this idyllic town one last summer – he'll show her why he loves it and if they happen to post deliberately misleading photos of their adventures together, so be it. But as Daphne starts to fall for the town, she is faced with a question: is Miles an interlude in her great love story with Peter or was Peter was just a footnote to that time she fell in love with her ex-fiancé’s new fiancé’s ex-boyfriend?

Maxim Cohen is an accountant & awardwinning finance specialist with over 18 years experience in the financial sector.

Maxim uses his expertise to help clients at every stage of their financial journey and situation. Whether you are looking to buy an investment property or expand your business, Maxim has access to the right funding with the right lenders.

A Legacy of Resilience and Prosperity

The history of Jewish lending in the UK is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Jewish community. Throughout the centuries, Jewish moneylenders have played a vital role in the nation’s economic development while adhering to their religious and ethical principles. In this article, I will explore the historical evolution of Jewish lending practices in the UK, the significance of tzedakah (charity) and interest-free loans, and the innovative use of Heter Iska to navigate the complexities of modern finance while maintaining religious compliance.

The Jewish presence in England can be traced back to the medieval period after the Norman Conquest in 1066. As Christians were prohibited from charging interest on loans due to Church doctrine, Jewish moneylenders filled the void and became instrumental in facilitating trade and finance. Jewish lending practices played a crucial role in the English economy during this time, despite facing challenges from antisemitic sentiments.

As the Jewish community grew in prominence, it faced increasing hostility and discrimination. During times of economic hardship or political turmoil, Jews often became scapegoats, leading to violence and persecution. The Statute of Jewry in 1275 imposed restrictions on Jewish moneylenders, including capping the interest rates they could charge on loans. This marked a significant departure from the previously more liberal lending practices.

The expulsion of Jews from England in 1290, ordered by King Edward I through the Edict of Expulsion, forced many Jewish moneylenders to leave the country. The Jewish community was dispersed to other parts of Europe, and for several centuries, they were absent from the UK.

The formal readmission of Jews to England occurred in 1656 during the Protectorate of Oliver Cromwell. Slowly, the Jewish community began to rebuild

their lives and businesses, reintegrating into British society.

Tzedakah, meaning “righteousness” or “charity” in Hebrew, is a central principle in Jewish tradition. It emphasises the moral obligation to help those in need and contribute to the welfare of the community. The concept of tzedakah is deeply rooted in the Torah and other Jewish texts, promoting social justice, compassion, and communal responsibility.

In the UK, Jewish organisations, synagogues, and individuals actively engage in various charitable initiatives to address

the needs of the vulnerable and support the community. These initiatives include providing aid to the homeless, supporting educational programmes, offering medical services, and assisting with community development.

Alongside tzedakah, the practice of providing interest-free loans has been a prominent way of assisting those facing financial challenges. Known by the acronym Gemach (Gemilut Chasadim, meaning acts of lovingkindness), these loans are classed more as grants, and the borrower is expected to repay the principal when their financial situation improves.

Interest-free loans not only uphold the principle of dignity and self-sufficiency but also enable individuals to address

A history of Jewish lending in the UK, with Rabbi Maxim Cohen, Chief Executive of The Jewish Lending Institute.

their immediate needs without incurring additional financial burdens. These loans promote a sense of responsibility and empowerment among the recipients, fostering a culture of giving back to the community once they are in a better financial position.

Where interest needs to be charged, the use of a Heter Iska, a legal contract that converts a loan into a business partnership. Heter Iska allows Jewish lenders to include a predetermined return on investment instead of charging interest. This innovative solution aligns with Jewish religious laws while facilitating participation in modern financial transactions.

The Heter Iska contract essentially redefines the transaction from a loan to an investment, making it permissible under Jewish law. This legal instrument has become a valuable tool for observant Jews in the UK, enabling them to engage in interestfree financing while remaining compliant with Halakhic principles.

In contemporary UK, the principles of tzedakah and interest-free loans continue to be integral to the Jewish community’s identity and values. These practices reflect a commitment to social responsibility, compassion, and the betterment of society. The history of Jewish lending in the UK is a testament to the enduring values and contributions of the Jewish community.

From medieval moneylenders to modern practices of interest-free loans and the use of Heter Iska, the Jewish community has navigated economic challenges while upholding their religious principles. The principles of tzedakah and interest-free loans stand as a testament to the importance of giving back to the community and supporting those in need. As the Jewish community in the UK continues to thrive and adapt, these practices will undoubtedly remain integral to their identity and social fabric for generations to come.

Maxim Cohen is also the Chief Executive of The UK Adviser Group.

Hang Out

With our recommendations of activities, hotels, and restaurants you’ll always have a place in mind for a hang out.

King Pins | Arndale

Opening its second Manchester venue is King Pins, the bowling alley which promises to give you a unique experience including extra activities such as curling, shuffleboard, batting cages, pool, ping pong, and karaoke. An amazing fun filled day out with great food and drink offerings too, such as pizza straight out of a pizza oven, burgers, wings, and cocktails and mocktails.

Kingpinsbowling.co.uk

Malmaison | Deansgate

Opening in spring this year the new Malmaison hotel in Deansgate has a glamorous and sleek rooftop bar which overlooks the Town Hall and Albert Square. With 70 guest rooms, the design of this hotel has a groovy retro 60s and 70s inspiration, emulated in its warm and inviting tones and mid-century modern furnishings.

Malmaison.com

John Ryland’s library | Deansgate

Reopening after a multi-million-pound renovation later this year is Manchester’s iconic library. Visited by many Potterhead’s for the Hogwarts atmosphere at this Grade I listed gothic structure; The Next Chapter Project aims to deliver world-class facilities which will update the library for improved accessibility and visitor experience.

Library.manchester.ac.uk

Skof by Tom Barnes | NOMA

Opening in spring this year is a debut restaurant from the talented northern born Chef, Tom Barnes, who vows to bring unpretentious, yet ambitious, fine dining to Manchester. You may recognise Tom from TV when he was invited to compete in BBC2's Great British Menu in 2020, where he won the main course at the final banquet.

Skofmanchester.co.uk

The Reach at Piccadilly | Piccadilly

Coming to Manchester this year, The Reach at Piccadilly is a new Manchester hotel on Ducie Street. While being a part of the Tribute Portfolio by Marriott the hotel it has an independent vibe which makes it feel welcoming and personal to each guest. This luxury 215 bedroomed hotel is one to look out for with its restaurant and bar, Lock 84 which even boasts its own Lock 84 IPA which is specially brewed by Salford’s Seven Bro7hers craft brewery and Ancoats Coffee which is roasted a few steps from the hotel.

Thereachmcr.com

Fairfield Social Club | Cheetham Hill

Open in March, Fairfield Social Club is a new food, drink, and event venue with Manchester’s greenest beer garden. Created by the team behind Manchester’s biggest street food vendors, GRUB, visitors can kick back and relax with a drink and enjoy international culinary options. There are also film screenings, live comedy, and artist Q&As in the pipeline so keep an eye on its website for a great evening out.

Fscmcr.co.uk

May Chen from Tsia Te, meaning “sip tea” in Fujian, currently runs traditional Chinese tea ceremonies and tea meditation workshops in Manchester Art Gallery and Didsbury Parsonage. During the tea meditation you pay attention to your senses and receive three to five bowls of tea while May guides you through meditation.

Hi May. Can you tell us what makes good quality tea?

Hello! So, we have six different types of tea, green, white, oolong, yellow, red, and black tea, and each of them offer different things. To make sure you’re getting tea which is good quality there are things you can look out for in the appearance of the tea leaves like their size and shape or you can make sure the dry leaves smell as you expect them to and if the flavour aroma is natural.

Then you’ll need to drink the tea to tell whether it’s good or not when it’s wet. So, when pouring, you observe the colour of the liquor, is it pale yellow, bright green, copper, amber, black accordingly? Does the colour meet your expectations according to the type of tea? And, how transparent is it?

Most of the time the liquor should be very transparent or clear. Then when you come to taste it, think about how you experience the mouth feel of the liquor, how does it travel through your throat? Does it make your mouth feel dry? It’s actually very similar to wine tasting.

What are the mindful qualities people can tap into when drinking tea?

Tea was first discovered in China thousands of years ago and it was actually discovered as a medicine, then later on it was widely used by monks in temples to help them keep mental clarity while they meditated. So, it developed from a medicine to a spiritual practice companion and now it is

Good Quali-tea

Its

National

Tea Day on 21st April! Find out how to get the most out of your tea by embedding it in mindful practice, and where to go for a good cuppa.

considered to be more of a social beverage.

So, my role in guiding a mindfulness practice is to revert the role of tea back to its spiritual roots. But essentially tea and tea leaves are a plant, they are a part of nature which holds so much wisdom. As you can imagine it gets all its nutrients from the soil and the earth so when we drink a cup of tea, it is a cup of nature.

When you are drinking tea it’s very easy for your mind to wander off, therefore we need to engage as much as we can to help us anchor in the present moment. Focusing on the smell, the taste, the texture of the bowl, the tea liquor, the tea leaves floating in the water, feeling the warmth of the tea in your mouth and as it travels to your stomach, it’s about paying attention to your body’s reactions.

To attend one of Tsia Te’s upcoming events or buy tea and tea merchandise then go to its website at Tsiate.com

TOP TEA SPOTS

Bird & Blend Tea Co. Northern Quarter

Leading the way in British tea innovation, the brand now offers the country’s largest range of creative blends, using a wide range of ingredients including herbs, flowers, fruits, caramels, and chocolate. There are 100+ flavours which include Chocolate Digestive’s Tea, Love Hearts Tea, and Birthday Cake tea. The largest range of matcha powder teas in the UK are also available at Bird & Blend Tea Co. Birdandblendtea.com

Whittard of Chelsea Market Street

Whittard is known for its amazing tea selection from special blends of Coconut Oolong or Mango and Bergamot loose tea to classics such as Earl Grey and English Breakfast. It also has a wide range of accessories such as glass tea pots, infusers, strainers, and measuring spoons.

Whittard.co.uk

TSUJIRI | Circle Square Complex

Tsujiri handles all things matcha, whether you want a matcha latte or a matcha desert you can try it all here. Its vibrant green matcha, a sign of high quality, is used throughout the store or can be bought to take home in ceremonial grade matcha or super ceremonial grade in its matcha gift set. Tsujiri.co.uk

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

BEST OF THE BEST

Belong Morris Feinmann celebrates awards of excellence in social care.

The spirit of compassion and devotion is well and truly thriving in Manchester as carers at dementia specialist, Belong, scooped accolades at its annual Champion Awards. Colleagues from the Belong Morris Feinmann experience team, alongside Caroline Clifton and Lisa Armstrong, were all recognised for their exceptional performance supporting older people to live an active and fulfilling later life.

Winners from the Didsbury village, and its corresponding home care service, Belong at Home, collected their trophies to rousing applause from colleagues from across the region at the iconic Hallé St Peter’s venue in Manchester

The experience team picked up the Community Engagement Award after a distinguished year of projects working with local personalities, businesses, and schools for its vibrant experiences programme. It has also opened its doors in the name of neighbourly support for those in need of an extra helping hand.

A notable triumph from the past year, they established The Tomforte Community Choir, enlisting Manchester choirmaster extraordinaire, Dan McDwyer, to lead the weekly rehearsals and stage special performances for the King’s Coronation, Chanukah, and Christmas.

The re-launch of Morris Minors, a weekly stay-and-play session inviting babies, toddlers, and their grown-ups to share multi-sensory learning experiences with the older residents has also proven to be a hit. In a similar theme, the benefits of intergenerational relationships have been seen in many a session with visiting schoolchildren to share in singing and dancing or when enjoying coffee and a catch-up.

In other examples, utilising close links with the Jewish community has resulted in experiences including previewing young artists’

creations with Manchester Jewish Museum, and documenting residents’ personal stories in collaboration with The Fed charity for its My Voice project.

Meanwhile, recruitment manager, Lisa Armstrong won the Central Services Award for successfully implementing an enhanced recruitment platform, helping to engage the sector’s very best talent to the organisation. Judges described her communication skills as ‘incredibly impressive’, while her work coordinating T Level students sets the sector up for future prosperity whilst giving young people the opportunity to earn hands-on experience for their social care qualification.

Finally, admiral nurse, Caroline Clifton was named Mentor of the Year for her role in developing the skills and confidence of colleagues when supporting people with dementia. She also co-leads the village’s monthly dementia cafe, B’s Cafe, a complimentary service offering non-residents and their carers guidance and advice.

Winners were determined by a panel of

independent judges who interviewed finalists chosen from nominations from customers, relatives and colleagues. All were presented with a handmade trophy, designed by Belong customer, Beryl Cadman, as part of a creative competition for the special occasion.

Summarising the event, Belong’s Chief Executive, Martin Rix, said: “It’s been another year of hard work and dedication from our teams and so we’re pleased to give them the recognition they deserve. To all our finalists and winners: thank you and congratulations for making Belong the best place for our customers to live and for our colleagues to work.”

The news follows a year of successes in 2023, with Belong picking up national accolades at the Great British Care Awards, LaingBuisson Awards, and The Dementia Care Awards, among others. Meanwhile, its community home care service, Belong at Home, was crowned first place for Homecare.co.uk’s Top 20 Large and Mid-size Home Care Groups and is the only not-for-profit operator to have placed every year since 2018.

ALL PHOTOS: TANYA DUMAN PHOTOGRAPHY

KADYN LOWE, FROM BONDI JUNCTION IN SYDNEY CAME ALL THE WAY TO MANCHESTER TO CELEBRATE HIS BAR MITZVAH.

THE CELEBRATION TOOK PLACE AT FAIRWAYS LODGE HOTEL WITH HIS LOVED ONES.

ZACK MASLIN WAS CALLED UP AT VINE STREET SYNAGOGUE.

BEFORE CELEBRATING AT HOME WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY.

MEANWHILE JAKEY BEHAR HAD HIS BAR MITZVAH AT HOLY LAW SYNAGOGUE.

HE PARTIED THE NIGHT AWAY AT LUBAVITCH MANCHESTER ON SINGLETON ROAD.

YEHUDA HALPERN ALSO CELEBRATED AT LUBAVITCH MANCHESTER.

AFTER BEING CALLED UP AT HEATON PARK SHUL.

HANNAH ACKERTON RECENTLY CELEBRATED HER BAT MITZVAH. WITH A BIG BASH AT OHR YERUSHALAYIM SHUL.

Dr Benjamin Wild, Senior Lecturer at the Manchester Fashion Institute shares what it was like for 50 students to be selected to work backstage at Chanel’s show.

Walk the Walk

Chanel approached the Manchester Fashion Institute at Manchester Metropolitan University to select local talent within its undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Since the show was a well-kept industry secret, even the students didn’t know they were applying for a job with the iconic international brand. Ben says: “Initially when the students were asked to put themselves forward, we couldn’t name Chanel. We could only talk about a ‘large luxury fashion brand’.”

The secret was even kept from the applicants during the interview process, it wasn’t until the lucky 50 out of 300 applicants had been successful that they would find out the enormity of the brand they’d be working with.

The Métiers d’Art, meaning art professions, is an annual show by Chanel to showcase the small specialist workshops which Chanel began buying in 1984 to preserve their craftsmanship and expertise. Previous shows have been hosted in New York (2018), Paris (2019), Tokyo (2022) and now in Manchester (2023).

About the significance of the Métiers d’Art coming to Manchester, Ben says: “I think Manchester has always been on the map, but I think this is that recognition of its place and position on the map. Historically in Manchester, where Chanel

placed the catwalk on Thomas Street, was the heart of ‘cottonopolis’ as Manchester was called in the 18th century. So, it’s recognising that history of Manchester.”

And Manchester’s fashion significance is not just a thing of the past, Harper’s Bazaar (the American monthly fashion magazine) deemed Manchester the “chic capital of the North” and the fashion and footwear blog, Wynsors ranks Manchester as the second most fashionable city in the UK with a mighty 104,951 uses of the hashtag #ManchesterFashion at time of publication. Ben comments: “What matters in Manchester is a sense of authenticity and identity. I don’t think people necessarily seek to be fashionable, I think they are fashionable because what they regard as a citizen is that sense of authenticity in what they wear.

“Manchester is such a rich melting pot because of the industrialisation, the politics of suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst being born here, and the music scene with bands like Joy Division, it’s blending all these ideas which come out in the way people express themselves.”

Chanel.com/gb/fashion/collection/ metiers-art-2023-24

Fashioninstitute.mmu.ac.uk

Staying Home

Home Instead is able to provide personalised at home care through day-to-day life, health troubles, and hospital stays.

When Alice’s husband passed away, her family was worried about her due to mobility and other health issues. Alice was fiercely independent and wanted to stay in her own home of over fifty years with her much loved cat Twinkle. Alice thought her family would look after her, however with busy lives this was just not working for them as a family. After making enquiries within the community, they phoned Home Instead.

They made a phone call, and a day later Lisa from Home Instead came to her house to meet Alice and her daughter. The idea of strangers looking after her worried Alice; it’s not like having family. Lisa re-assured her that all her care professionals would be introduced to her before they started to help. They would keep the same care professionals providing her support and they would be happy to look after Twinkle as well.

The support started with just a few hours a week to give the family a break. Alice was introduced to Gill, her care professional, and they found they had a lot in common, particularly their love of cats. Home Instead encourages its care professionals to build relationships with their clients and their families so they are no longer strangers in their home.

Inevitably as the years progressed Alice’s health had its ups and downs, with hospital stays and emergencies. But with the stability that Home Instead has offered, the family have coped without having to stop their normal lives and are able to enjoy seeing Alice in her own home, not worrying about who’s looking after her. If they need anything they ask the office for help and get advice from people they know. So even when Alice had a bad tumble the family were able to get her home with support, so no long hospital stays which was particularly important during the pandemic.

Five years later Home Instead is still caring for Alice in her own home with Twinkle, and as Alice says to her daughters: “I don’t know what all the fuss was about.”

Having Home Instead providing care for just a few hours a week can take away a lot of worries for families with the knowledge that they have professional help at hand, keeping loved ones safe in their own home. Making plans in advance can save lots of stress and time, having a few hours a week with Home Instead gives families options for professional help in a crisis. Finding care quickly can be difficult, so having a local care provider you know can give you and your loved one reassurance to stay safe at home.

Homeinstead.co.uk

WELCOME HOME

Rabbi Greg Bank of Yeshurun Cheadle & Gatley Synagogue explains why visiting shul should feel like home.

Do you sing in the shower? If you engage in this skilled recreational activity, you need not feel ashamed or embarrassed as 81% of Britons periodically sing in the shower!

Experts debate the reason we sing in the shower. Some say it is due to the good acoustics of the tiled floor, others put it down to the serenity created by the stream of water, but I think there is a more fundamental reason. We sing in the shower because we are at ease and comfortable in our surroundings and for this reason we don’t only sing in the shower. We sing when we make our lunch, when we fold the laundry or mow the lawn. We sing at home because at home we feel at home.

Home is a unique environment. We become attached to the places we live because they provide three things: security, a sense of belonging and pride.

I understood the importance of the concept of home last month when I visited Kibbutz Be’eri on a Rabbinic Mission to Israel. As we entered the burnt living room of Ofra Keidar and stood on the shards of glass and broken bricks of her once beautiful home, I noted the pictures on the wall, the games for grandchildren and her hobbies and interests. The tragedy was not only that she had been killed but that a Jewish home had been destroyed.

Hebrew is a precise language, and its words truly reflect the concept they wish to describe. A school is a ‘beit sefer,’ the home of a book, a hospital is a ‘beit cholim,’ the home of the sick, a ‘beit avot’ is home for our forebears, and a ‘beit kafeh,’ a coffeeshop is a home of coffee. Even a cemetery is called a ‘beit kevarot,’ a home for the buried. Our shuls of course are a ‘beit Knesset,’ a home for gathering.

In Judaism our communal organisations are not cold clinical buildings, rather they are homes that radiate warmth and love. But there is more to it. In Temple times one was forbidden to ascend to the holy site with shoes on. Being barefoot was required so one could subdue and humble oneself in the house of Hashem. It is strange that this practice is not echoed in Shul, given that so much of synagogue architecture and behaviour is moulded around what happened in the Temple.

Rabbi Soloveitchik gives a profound answer that really gives an incredible insight into what the synagogue is about. In the Temple, we visit Hashem’s home and so we remove our shoes. At the synagogue Hashem visits our home and, in our homes, we feel more at ease and thus can remain with our shoes on.

“For the Lord your G-d is bringing you to a good land, a land with brooks of water, fountains and depths, that emerge in valleys and mountains” (Devarim 7:7)

The synagogue is our home. Just as at home we feel comfortable and at ease, so too at shul do we feel comfortable and at ease. At home we are surrounded by family and shul is our family – its children are our children and its elders our grandparents. Just as children run around comfortably at home, they should run around comfortably at shul. Yes, at home they learn to respect property, but they still feel at home. At home we eat and at shul boy oh boy do we know how to eat! As mentioned, at home we sing and at shul, we sing, whether we are in tune or out of tune – we sing because we are comfortable to do so. And you know what, at home there are arguments and debates but that is fine because it is all part of family living. So, go on down to your local synagogue and don't be shy. Make yourself at home because you are at home.

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