Two held over synagogue attack released on bail

A man and a woman who were arrested on suspicion of arson endangering life after two bottles, which were thought to contain petrol, were thrown at a north London synagogue have been released on bail.

The attack on the Finchley Reform Synagogue is being treated as an antisemitic hate crime, according to police who arrested the 47-year-old woman and 46-year-old man in the Watford area on Wednesday.

Police said the suspects, who were wearing balaclavas, approached the building at about 01:00 BST and threw a brick and two bottles. No damage or injuries were caused.

Finchley Reform Synagogue Cantor Zoë Jacobs previously said the synagogue was a "proud, progressive and welcoming space for all".

"This is clearly an attempt to intimidate the British Jewish community," she said.

"We will continue to prioritise building bridges across the wider Barnet community and will not be deterred by these cowardly acts.

"As always, our community is being incredibly well supported by the police, the government, CST and all of our key partners."

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