SIR ­— If ever the close relationship between the Jewish and Muslim communities in Bradford needed to be proved the event at this evening’s service for the Jewish New Year at the Synagogue in Bowland Street would emphasise it (Celebrating the Jewish New Year ­— 20 September): because the sermon was given by Mr.Zulficar Karim, the well-known Vice President of the Bradford Council of Mosques.

His subject was his recent visit with his brother to Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia on Umra (equivalent to Hajj). He illustrated his talk with a montage of photographs which he exhibited at the front of the altar.

Though the story would be familiar to Muslims, especially to those who had been on Umra or Hajj, it was news to the Jewish congregation who followed his every word with great interest.

It will not be too much of an exaggeration to suggest that this was a ‘first’ anywhere and should be celebrated as another step forward in inter-community relations in Bradford.

Rudi Leavor, Heaton Park Drive, Bradford