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RABBI YAAKOV Hamer of Finchley Central Federation Synagogue has been chosen to be the next head of the Bridge Lane Hamedrash in Golders Green, succeeding Rabbi Shimon Winegarten. He will take up the post in September.

During his 40 years at the helm of the Union of Orthodox Hebrew Congregations affiliate, Rabbi Winegarten became one of North-West London’s most respected strictly Orthodox rabbis.

Last autumn, he announced that he would be making aliyah this summer.

Originally from America, Rabbi Hamer was one of the founder members of the kollel in Edgware established by former London Beth Din head Dayan Chanoch Ehrentreu. His wife Yael was educated at Hasmonean High.

“My wife and I are extremely grateful to the wonderful community at Finchley Central,” he said. “The past 12 years have been years of growth and connection which we have enjoyed immeasurably.

“We hope our experience in Finchley will prepare us for the next stage at Bridge Lane.”

He went on that “taking over from Rav Shimon Winegarten is a formidable challenge and a very tough act to follow. In addition to his 40 years serving the Bridge Lane shul, he has been active in Jewish communal life and revered in the community as an idealistic, ethical Torah leader who serves the NorthWest London community with integrity and dedication.

“I can only hope that, be’ezrat Hashem [with the help of God], I will build on his wonderful achievements and continue to develop the shul.”

Taking over from Rabbi Winegarten is a formidable challenge’