Raina was chosen after local MP Fabian Hamilton was asked to name two local community heroes to attend a reception at Number 10.

And the Leeds North East MP suggested Raina and Abid Hussain.

After showing them around City Hall and the Houses of Parliament, Mr Hamilton escorted them to Downing Street for a reception hosted by the Prime Minister and his wife, Sarah.

Raina said: "I was stunned when Fabian asked me to go to Downing Street, but also extremely flattered.

"I work with so many great people, not only my own Zone team of staff, volunteers and trustees, but people from many diverse sections of our community and respect them all.

"The Leeds Jewish community must continue to work together for the good of the whole community.

"No matter what our religiosity or if we live in the centre of the community or outskirts there are many things we have in common and that is what unites us and what we celebrate at The Zone."

She added: "It was a privilege to step through the doors of Downing Street and was hard to take it all in. It was a fascinating experience.

"The Prime Minister asked about - and was very interested in - the work I do, and of course encouraged us to carry on the good work."

Mr Hamilton added: "Nominating two 'community heroes' posed some problems as I meet a lot of wonderful people every week during the course of my work in the constituency.

"The Jewish community is fortunate to have so many selfless people who are happy to give up their time to help others, but immediately one person came to mind, Raina Sheaf.

"I came to know Raina only a few years ago and followed the work that she does in the community.

"The Zone is a shining example to all communities of just how children and the wider community can benefit from a really well run youth centre,

"The reason I wanted Raina to come to Downing Street to meet the Prime Minister was that she does a great deal more than run The Zone.

"She is involved in many groups and networks with lots of organisations for the good of the Jewish community.

"We need more people who can bring a community together like Raina as she has a feel for what will work and what is important.

"Add to that the work she is involved with on youth alcohol and drug awareness, as well as a host of other issues, and it's clear that Raina will never shirk the difficult questions.

"Her energy, enthusiasm and drive certainly make her one of our 'community heroes'."