A Jewish Menorah will be lit in a high street for the first time this year.

Loughton Synagogue and Chabad, an educational organisation, has arranged for the symbol of Judaism to stand in Loughton High Road.

The seven-branched lamp, which stands for peace and freedom for Jewish people, will celebrate the eight-day festival of Chanukah.

The festival will see the Jewish community reflect on survival through the centuries as it commemorates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem following oppression from the Greeks.

Rabbi Brandman, of the Chabad Community Centre in Buckhurst Hill, said: “It’s really beautiful to be able to have a public Menorah in Loughton, where the Jewish community is prominent and brings so much to the neighbourhood.

“The council’s encouragement is also a great expression of their commitment to promote peace amongst the local communities.”

The Menorah will be erected opposite Marks and Spencer for the duration of the Chanukah festival period.

On December 2 at 7pm the public are invited to the lighting ceremony.