A rabbi reeled off a list of 65 facts about Israel – one for each year the country has been independent – to celebrate Yom Ha-atzmaut, Israel's birthday.

The congregation dressed in blue and white and waved Israeli flags during the special event at Woodford Liberal Synagogue in Marlborough Road, South Woodford.

The facts listed by Rabbi Richard Jacobi celebrated Israeli medical and technological achievements, including the invention of the world’s smallest video camera and the development of a drug to treat multiple sclerosis.

Visitors also enjoyed a craft session at the celebrations creating a map of Israel.

Bob Kamall, chairman of the synagogue, said: “It was a lovely celebration bringing all ages together to rejoice in Israel’s 65th birthday.”