In-fighting which degenerated into 'harassment and intimidation' following the appointment of a new rabbi to the synagogue in Robinson Road has prompted a special meeting tonight.
The row prompted synagogue trustee chairman Michael Green to warn members of legal action if attempts were made to force the rabbi to break his contract.
One member described the row as 'ugly', saying certain factions of the congregation had resorted to harassing synagogue wardens - including insulting handouts and telephone calls to members' employers insinuating they were dishonest.
In his memo, Mr Green wrote: 'The Trustees have been advised that the use by any person of the telephone or fax to send any message to another which is grossly offensive or menacing in nature is a criminal offence, rendering that person liable to a fine and/or imprisonment.' Mr Green was unavailable to comment yesterday.
Rabbi Yaakov Kermaier, who has been in the post for less than two weeks, said yesterday: 'There's an appearance of a great deal of in-fighting. There happens to be a very vocal small group of people protesting.' According to one member - who asked not to be named for fear of 'unpleasant' retribution - the dispute centres on the selection process, which is in the hands of the trustees.
Four candidates were considered, including one local member the aggrieved minority felt should have been selected, she said.
