Muslims across Lancashire invited their neighbours to visit their local mosque as part of a national initiative at the weekend, with the event hailed a success.
The ‘Visit My Mosque’ campaign which was backed by the Lancashire Council of Mosques (LCM) is a UK-wide initiative launched by the Muslim Council of Britain.
In Blackburn, one of the town’s newest mosques, Masjid e Taqwa based in Pleckgate Road, welcomed people from all backgrounds.
The building, a former church, has been unused for a number of years until it was transformed into a mosque serving the people living in the local area.
The features of the building remain the same and developers have looked to celebrate the cultural heritage of the historic site.
The open day at the Masjid e Taqwa featured a live Islamic exhibition which offered attendees a unique opportunity to explore the teachings of Islam, engage with knowledgeable volunteers and tour the building.
For some people it was their first time visiting a mosque.
Following the attacks at Southport mosque and the summer riots, organisers said the outpouring of solidarity from the local community was ‘wonderful to see’.
Noreen Hamid and Faz Patel, who led the local campaign, said they were delighted with the turn out.
Noreen said: "It was heartwarming to see so many people come together to share love and support each other.”
Chair of the Lancashire Council of Mosques, Hafiz Abdul Alim, said: "It is crucial to hold events like this, especially in the wake of the challenges we faced during the summer.
"Building bridges and fostering understanding is more important than ever."
Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Britain, Zara Mohammed, was touring the region during to the weekend.
Speaking of her visit to Masjid e Taqwa, she said: "It is a beautiful mosque with its historic architecture still very much a part of its story.
"Many guests joined for the first time, hoping to learn more and share stories together."
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