Well i have relented, the pressure is too great - I am back by popular demand! no promises but i hope to make a regular post here so do come back and check regularly.

Making the most of the "quiet period" (no such thing) by catching up on visits and writing articles for Rosh Hashanah.

With many people about to go away there is an almighty push to ensure that the daily minyan is maintained. Many people have stepped forward and will be coming, thank you. Could still do with a few more so if you are not on the rota please do step forward and contact me, even if you are able to come for one day. it all helps.

So far so good! getting a good crowd and some new regulars which is fantastic.

Holiday season coming up and lots of our regulars away so we need even more new regulars to step in and help out. anyone? please email me if you can help.

Wow! what a weekend we have just had.

It started off with a very special occasion after Shacharis on Friday morning where we had the rare opportunity and privilege to host a Pidyon Haben - redemption of the first born (click here for more info http://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/652310/jewish/Pidyon-Haben.htm).

On Shabbos morning we had a special Kiddush sponsored by the Yarm family to mark the impending Aliyah of their son Aaron who made a very nice speech at the end of the service.

To top it all off we had a fantastic crowd for the Chanukah supper quiz. The atmosphere was great and the fact that my table won was a real bonus.

So much work was put into this weekend by so many people, particularly the guild with the catering, which has left as all with a weekend that will live long in the memories.

Anyone who was present in shul this past Shabbos will attest to the fact that it was special. If you were not well you really missed out, not that I mean to rub it in of course.

With Anne and Harry Prais celebrating their golden wedding anniversary a presentation with a difference was expertly given by the president and then a nice response from Harry.

Anne and Harry sponsored a Kiddush after Shul that will live long in the memories. "The works" is the only way to describe it. Thanks of course to all those who voluntarily gave of their time to prepare such a magnificent Kiddush.

With another sponsored Kiddush coming up this Shabbos there seems to be no end to these. No complaints from me, it all adds the wonderful communal spirit that we all enjoy every Shabbos.

Have been trying to post something for a long time but...just been too busy! how many times have  you heard that from me but it really is true.

Friday is probably the busiest day of the week particulary in winter. Today I have completed my Chanukah message for the next edition of Central news which will be with you before chanukah - let me know what you think of the message when you read it I always appreciate feedback.

I still have to finalise my sermon, Friday night Chumash Rashi Shiur, Dvar Torah for tonight, Shabbat afternoon shiur and of course Leyning! and all before Shabbos. With the big Kiddush this weekend i also have to shomer in the kitchen and of course respond to the various emails, phonecalls and texts coming in, getting the picture? now you know what i mean when i say busy.

watch this space for my next post.

wishing you all a good shabbos and looking forward to seeing you in shul.