Extra police patrols on Jewish holy days

Greater Manchester Police are running a special operation to ensure the Jewish community are free to enjoy one of the most important religious festivals on their calendar.

The High Holy days begin on the evening of Wednesday 8 September 2010, and include Yom Kippur, the Eve of Rosh Hashana, and the Jewish New Year, and end on Friday 1 October 2010.

Anti-Semetic incidents have risen in Manchester over the past two years and it is hoped that joint foot patrols by police officers and members of CST - the Jewish Community Security Trust, who provide reassurance and security advice - will deter any unwanted activity during this period.

Greater Manchester Police Chief Superintendent Jon Rush said: “The High Holy Days are a combination of the most important religious festivals in the Jewish calendar. We are working closely again this year with CST and putting extra patrols in place to make sure people feel safe and have easy access to police officers and reporting centres.

“We received really positive feedback from the Jewish community last year and are planning to deliver another quality service throughout this year’s festive period.”

CST spokesman Mark Gardner said: "The support and reassurance we receive from Greater Manchester Police throughout the year is always appreciated. The High Holy Days are an important period for all Jewish communities and we look forward to working with GMP, to provide a safe and secure environment for people to attend synagogue and celebrate the upcoming festivals."

Greater Manchester has the second largest Jewish community in Britain, after London, with around 35,000 people.