A VANDALISED grave at a Blackburn cemetery has been described as a disgraceful attack on the Muslim community.

The graffiti, which was found yesterday morning, was also sprayed on the wall of a prayer room.

The police have pledged to hold a full investigation after attending the scene.

Former Shear Brow councillor Muntazir Patel said: “What happened in Woolwich was completely wrong and I would never want that to happen again.

“But I think it’s completely unfair to blame a whole community or region for the actions of a couple of people.

“We do not want this sort of thing in Blackburn, or anywhere else in the world, and the whole community should get together and stamp this out.

“The people of Blackburn should work together to make it a better place.

“Islam is a religion of peace, everybody knows that.”

Zahir Mahmud, 41, from Blackburn, said: “I’m more disappointed this has happened than angry.

“This is only an isolated incident and I don’t think that it would have much impact on the relationship of our community with the rest of Blackburn.

“I think it’s disgraceful that this has happened and I hope it never happens again.”

A man who visits the shelter three times a week said: “It’s upsetting, insulting and makes you wonder why they would do this.

“It’s the same as somebody writing graffiti on a church and I wonder how that would make them feel.

“There are kids growing up here and I don’t want them to experience this sort of thing.”

Chief Superintendent Bob Eastwood said: “An investigation has been launched following the incident that took place at Blackburn cemetery overnight.

“It is unacceptable for anyone to commit crimes like this, especially at places of worship, and those people responsible need to be caught and brought to justice.

“I would appeal to anyone who was in the area at the time and who may have information to get in touch with one of my officers or report it to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”