I know what an anxious time it’s been over the past few months for the Jewish community.

Everyone should be able to enjoy the religious tolerance we have fought to preserve in this country over the centuries. That is why, for Rosh Hashanah this year, the Leader of the Council, Morris Bright, and I made a commitment of solidarity to fight hatred, religious intolerance and unfair discrimination in all its forms as your elected representatives.

Of course these challenges do not just relate to our Jewish community. They also apply to our Muslim community, our growing Hindu community and the Christian community which also suffers discrimination, particularly in the Middle East. I want everyone in Hertsmere to know that I stand with you.

This is an issue I have raised time and again in the House of Commons and with my colleagues in the Government. I’ve also had the pleasure to see our communities as a whole proudly standing up to discrimination, whether it be at the Enough is Enough rally in Parliament Square earlier this year, or in the response to appalling recent terror attacks.

If anyone of any background has concerns surrounding unfair discrimination and intolerance, they should not hesitate to contact Cllr Bright or me. To view our pledge and video message, please visit (goo.gl/eWWhz5).

Finally, to everyone who is celebrating, I wish you a happy and peaceful new year. Shana tova!