JEWISH families have returned to their homes on Canvey after being left stranded in Israel as devastating attacks led to thousands of deaths.

Back on October 7, Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Israel.

Now, the Canvey Jewish community has revealed several families were in Israel at the time and were stranded – only returning home on special flights put on by the Government in recent days.

Joel Friedman, one of the lay leaders of the Canvey Jewish community and chair of the Canvey Jewish Trust, said: “We are all shocked and saddened by the horrific atrocities that occurred in Israel.

“Unprecedented in its monstrosity and scale, this tragedy has deeply affected our Jewish community.

“For some of us, it hit very close to home with family and friends living in Israel.

“We had several families from Canvey who were stranded in Israel.

“We have already witnessed a rise in hate crimes, including some here on Canvey. But, on the other hand, I am greatly encouraged by the outpouring of support and love shown by members of the wider community towards our community and Canvey Island.

“I have received many letters of support, messages, and flowers, which is very heartening.

“In times like this, we should stand together as one, united in our condemnation of terrorism and in support of each other.

“I would like to express my gratitude to Essex Police for their strong support and physical presence during these trying times.

“I am also encouraged by the Government’s response and support, including their efforts to bring UK citizens stranded in Israel back home.”

Following the attacks, buildings and landmarks across south Essex were lit up blue and white in support of Israel – including the Basildon sign on the A127 and the light poles on Southend seafront.

Officers from Essex Police and Castle Point MP, Rebecca Harris, have visited the Jewish community and synagogue on Canvey to show their support.

Basildon Council also carried a motion at a meeting which saw them unite in condemning any religious persecution and reaching out to neighbouring councils to see if more can be done to support the communities affected in south Essex.