Mosques across the region hosted their first Eid al-Fitr prayers in two years.

In what is a rare occasion in recent years all Muslims across the UK celebrated Eid on the very same day meaning mosques had to host staggered morning  prayers (Thursday May 13) .

The Eid festival to mark the end of Ramadan took place within a strict lockdown last year and all mosques had to remain closed. This year there was a slightly subdued atmosphere with ongoing thoughts prayers for the people of Palestine.

Due to Covid restrictions capacities at mosques were still limited. All attendees were asked to wear masks, bring their own prayers mats and in some of the mosques children under 12 were not permitted.

The fine morning weather allowed some mosques to host prayers in their courtyards. Others had to simply tell worshippers the building was full.

Volunteers and marshals were on hand to direct worshippers to entrances and exits. Where two or three sittings had been planned worshippers were asked to vacate the premises as quicky as possible ahead the next prayers.

Lancashire Telegraph:

Volunteers at the Ghousia Mosque based on Leamington Road

Lancashire Telegraph:

Worshippers outside Jamia Ghosia Mosque on Chester Street, Audley, Blackburn

Lancashire Telegraph:

The Masjide Rizwan on Newton Street, Blackburn (above) - All pictures are of those in one household or support bubble.)

Lancashire Telegraph:

Worshippers at the Madni Masjid on Lancaster Place and (below) Prayers in the front courtyard.

Lancashire Telegraph:

Prayers in the front courtyard at the Madni Masjid on Lancaster Place, just off Preston New Road, Blackburn (All Pictures LT/AI)

Many people then headed to the cemetery with those having attended early sittings able to visit at 7am.

The government’s next step out of lockdown means that families will be permitted to visit each other from May 17 and restaurants are permitted to serve customers inside.

All pictures are of those in one household or support bubble.