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Centenary: Congregation of Jacob - Picture: Stuart Burns

Synagogue warden David Brandes said: "We hope that tonight's event will ensure that more people will cross the threshold to come daven with what is a very special and welcoming community."

Congregation leaders hope the event will attract young Jews moving back to the East End to attend the shul, which is undergoing renovation.

One of the East End's last remaining synagogues held a service this week to mark its centenary.

More than 150 people, including Chief Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, gathered at the Congregation of Jacob Synagogue in Stepney on Monday for a special Mincha service and reception.

Also attending were representatives of other faith communities, including the Bishop of Stepney, the Rev Stephen Oliver, and Manir Uddin Ahmed, deputy mayor of Tower Hamlets.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Rabbi, who grew up near the shul, said "I commend all of you, not for just keeping it going, but for keeping it strong and keeping the flame alight. For me, coming here is like coming home, because most of my early childhood was spent in Commercial Road."