Art lovers flocked to Redbridge last weekend as the hammer fell on hundreds of artworks.

The United Synagogue, in Woodford Bridge Road held their first ever Israeli art exhibition and sale.

Auctioneer Menachem Safrai from the Safrai Gallery in Jerusalem, flew in hundreds pieces, including oil paintings, watercolours and lithographs.

Fiona Sapler, on the board of the synagogue, said: “The works by Israeli and Russian artists ranged from �50 to hundreds of pounds.” Cllrs Alan Weinberg and Ruth Clark gave their support to the fundraising event.

Mrs Sapler said: “Around �6000 was raised. Of that, about �500 is going towards the synagogue.”

Organiser Cynthia Simmons added: “We had 100 people through our doors throughout the day.

“It was a fantastic way to spend mother’s day for many, we hope that everyone who bought something loves their new purchase,” she added.