Members of Oxford's Jewish community are taking extra security measures amid fears that the violence in the Middle East could put their synagogue at risk, write Roseena Parveen.

Visitors to the synagogue in Richmond Road, Jericho, are now being subjected to bag searches and mobile phones are banned.

The move was sparked by fears of possible reprisals following the clashes between the Israelis and Palestinians in the Middle East. Sandra Dwek, president of the Oxford Jewish Congregation, said the measures were a necessary precaution and were introduced following advice from police and security advisers.

She said: "Although we have no specific concerns or fears at the moment, it is necessary to implement certain common sense precautions to avoid possible incidents, which may or may not be triggered by events in the Middle East.

"These measures are particularly important when there are large numbers of people gathered there, for instance on the recent High Holy Days." Pilgrims from Bicester have already postponed a tour of the Holy Land due to the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians.

A party of 20 people from the Anglican Church's team ministry in the town were due to have left last Saturday.

But the trip has been put back for a year. The Rev Bob Atkins, the team's non-stipendary curate, said: "I was getting concerned about safety and security out there. It could have been difficult to get from one place to another."

During the ten-day trip the group was going to visit Jerusalem, Nazareth, Bethlehem and the Sea of Galilee.

The Rev Philip Ball, rector of the team ministry, added: "I think it was a wise decision to cancel the trip for a year.

People were unhappy and worried about their safety."