Families attended a fun day to help strengthen a synagogue's connection with families.

More than 400 people helped launched Bushey Families, a new initiative by Bushey United Synagogue.

The event, held at Immanuel College, enjoyed a range of fairground-style rides, face-painting and hair braiding, a photo booth and popcorn and candy floss stands.

The children also took in a visit from the local fire brigade and enjoyed looking inside the fire engine.

The United Synagogue’s Communal Development Fund will include a range of social, spiritual and educational activities over the coming 18 months.

Future activities include Friday night dinners for Bushey families whose children attend the same school.

This kicks off with Hertsmere Jewish Primary School's Friday Night Dinner, and over 100 people are already booked on.

Esther Phillips, a Bushey resident who attended the day said: “I am so impressed that Bushey Synagogue can put on an event of this scale and imagination just for local families. My kids had a blast”

Rabbi Nick Kett, assistant Rabbi of Bushey Synagogue, who with his wife Shira, coordinates the Bushey Families programme.

Hesaid: “Bushey Families is about providing something different to address social, spiritual and educational needs of the families who live in our community. We are opening our doors to all Bushey’s many families, are want to provide something for everyone.”

Jonathan Kalms, chairman of Bushey Synagogue said: “Bushey is now the second largest United Synagogue community, and this fun day just showed what we can achieve.

"Our community has a special and welcoming atmosphere and what we are managing with Bushey Families is only possible thanks to our brilliant team of volunteers who make it happen. I am excited for what Bushey Families is going to achieve.”