Hundreds of Muslims marched through the streets of Blackburn to celebrate the birth of the Prophet Muhammad.

The annual event attracts large crowds and the Audley gathering is the first of a number of celebrations set to take place over the coming months.

People gathered at the Jamia Ghosia Mosque in Chester Street on Sunday and then made their way on to Audley Range and on to adjoining streets.

The event was marshalled by a team of volunteers and traffic disruption is kept to a minimum which roads closed only minutes ahead of the march. The crowds arrived bac to the mosque within an hour where hundreds were served a meal from giant curry pots.

The "Eid Milad un Nabi Julsa and Juloos" is organised by the mosque, which is one of the biggest in the borough.

Lancashire Telegraph: Crowds gather outside the mosque before it begins

Lancashire Telegraph: Along the route drinks and delicacies were handed out to those taking part

Lancashire Telegraph: A team of volunteers were on hand to marshal the event

A message from the organisers circulated on the day read: “All children under the age of 12 to be accompanied by an adult.

“Please wear adequate clothing and footwear. Please kindly place all litter in bin bags provided.

“We have put in place all safety measures so that all participants are protected from all safety hazards.

“So please do take part and bring along your children too and enjoy this beautiful event.”

Further events are due to take place in the coming weeks in Blackburn, Bolton and Nelson.

Lancashire Telegraph: The march makes its way down Chester Street