Plans to build a new school in Fishwick were given the thumbs up by Preston City Council.

Medina Mosque in William Henry Street is in the process of overseeing the construction of a two-storey educational centre for local children to learn Islam.

The building, a former builders' merchants, was bought by the mosque 15 years ago and more than £300,000 has been raised to turn it into a school.

It will provide daily classes for more than 150 Muslim children from 5pm-7pm. Mosque leader Ayub Bapu said: "This facility will provide in depth learning of the Islamic values and faith for all Muslim children in the Fishwick area. They work very hard. It provides a discipline for them and keeps them off the streets and out of trouble.

"I've lived in the area for 30 years and I'm delighted that this is finally happening."

The youngsters, aged five to 16 years old, will meet in the special assembly hall for prayers and learn all about their faith.

When they complete their studies they have a recognised qualification.

All money has been raised by members the mosque over the past three years.

It will be decorated in a distinct style with minarets outside - types of spires - distinguishing it from the other properties on the street.

Mr Arif Vali joint secretary of the mosque said, "At the moment if you walk down the street you wouldn't know there is a mosque there. We are excited about this project. We bought the site a long time ago and knew that sooner or later the increasing Muslim population would need another

building."

Ilyas Umar, also a secretary at the mosque, added, "We expect it to be up and running in the next 12 months."