Salute to Israel Photographs

After months of planning the UK's first ever 'Salute to Israel' parade was a huge success. Thousands of people joined the festive parade which included over 50 colourful carnival floats accompanied by cyclists, dancers and marching bands.

The parade was a public affirmation of solidarity with and support of Israel, as well as an expression of unity within the UK Jewish community, transcending religious and political affiliations.

Following the parade thousands more supporters filled Trafalgar Square for a rally with guest speakers including Knesset member and Minister for Diaspora Affairs, Issac Herzog MK and Secretary of State for Children Schools and Families, Rt Hon Ed Balls MP as well as event compere, LBC radio host and popular television personality Nick Ferrari.

Celebrity messages of support from the likes of Bill Clinton, Michael Douglas, Ashton Kutcher, Ben Stiller and Billy Crystal amongst others were transmitted around the square.

The Chief Rabbi, Sir Jonathan Sacks described the event as: "Our way of expressing our love for Israel, our thanksgiving for the past and our hopes for the future."

Music ranged from Jewish rappers to Kletzmer and even a hip hop violinist as well as musical treats from Israeli stars Useless ID to Liel, widely credited as the 'Israeli Celine Dion.' A rare UK performance from Chassidic pop star Yoni Shlomi who completed the line up.

Make sure you visit our photo gallery to check out photos from the day!