Around 150 people of all faiths and none braved wind and rain to celebrate the lighting of the Chanukah Menorah in Gants Hill for the 35th year and counting.

Ilford Recorder: Chanukah celebrations took place at the Chabad Centre, in Eastern Avenue, Gants Hill on Saturday, December 8. Photo: Chabad CentreChanukah celebrations took place at the Chabad Centre, in Eastern Avenue, Gants Hill on Saturday, December 8. Photo: Chabad Centre (Image: Archant)

Worshippers gathered at iconic roundabout on Saturday evening (December 8) and among them was Rabbi Aryeh Sufrin, director of the Chabad North East London and Essex based in Eastern Avenue.

Addressing the crowd, Rabbi Sufrin said: “It’s so nice to see young and old gathering together in an act of solidarity and unity to celebrate the meaning of the Chanukah story in the modern day.

“Light dispels darkness.

“Whether we are in a dark place emotionally, mentally or physically, we all have the ability to kindle a light and bring some peace and tranquillity into the hearts and lives of those who need it most.”

Ilford Recorder: Chanukah celebrations took place at the Chabad Centre, in Eastern Avenue, Gants Hill on Saturday, December 8. Photo: Chabad CentreChanukah celebrations took place at the Chabad Centre, in Eastern Avenue, Gants Hill on Saturday, December 8. Photo: Chabad Centre (Image: Archant)

Th event was the last in a series of six public menorah lightings which had taken place since the festival began on Sunday, December 2.

A party at the Chabad Centre followed where traditional latkes and doughnuts were served.

Ilford Recorder: llford North MP Wes Streeting and council leader Cllr Jas Athwal attended the lighting of the Chanukah Menorah in Gants Hill roundabout on Saturday, December 8. Photo: Chabad Centrellford North MP Wes Streeting and council leader Cllr Jas Athwal attended the lighting of the Chanukah Menorah in Gants Hill roundabout on Saturday, December 8. Photo: Chabad Centre (Image: Archant)