A Finchley synagogue is buzzing with excitement as it welcomes some new residents.

The New North London Synagogue, at the Sternberg Centre in East End Road, has just installed a beehive in its grounds as part of the Jewish Community Centre for London’s (JCC’s) Bee the Change scheme.

The scheme aims to reduce the dramatic decline in London’s honeybee population.

The new hive will be looked after by mother-of-four Deena Kestenbaum from Fitzalan Road, Finchley, who has just completed a year-long training course at City Farm in Kings Cross.

She said: “I am beside myself with excitement about looking after the hive.

“I loved the course. I found it incredible learning about the bees. Once you go into detail, you realise the astonishing nature of nature. I have learnt so much.”

As well as looking after her hives Ms Kestenbaum, 54, will also be responsible for supporting and mentoring future beekeepers.

The JCC took on the cause of supporting London’s honeybee population because traditionally honey is a symbolic food eaten by Jews over their new year holiday period.

It is a symbol of the hope for a sweet year ahead.

On October 14 people will be given the opportunity to meet Ms Kestenbaum and her bees at JCC’s Big Bee Bash.

Visitors to the event, which will take place between 2pm and 5pm at the Sternberg Centre, will be able to taste the honey and made beeswax candles.