The wife of the Chief Rabbi has paid her first visit to the Southend and Westcliff Day Centre, in Cobham Road.

Chatting to Day Centre visitors - Chief Rabbi's wife, Elaine Sax Picture: DAVE HENDERSON

Elaine Sacks, whose husband Professor Jonathan Sacks became Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth in 1991, was welcomed by the centre manager, Richard Shone, on Thursday.

Mr Shone introduced her to members, staff and volunteers, and told her about the centre's daily programme of activities which includes keep fit, arts and crafts, discussion groups and regular outings.

During the visit, Mrs Sacks met up with Faye Beck, 91, one of the centre members and the longest-serving tenant of Shebson Lodge, which is above the day centre.

Mrs Beck, whose late husband had been the minister of Romford Synagogue, said: "We go back a long way. My son was a friend of the Chief Rabbi and they both went to Bnai Akiva (a Jewish youth movement). Elaine is lovely."

Mrs Sacks said she was "very impressed" with the range of activities on offer and how friendly everyone had been.

Published Monday August 9, 2004

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