THREE years of fundraising has finally paid off for a local community.

Members of the Medina Mosque in William Henry Street, Preston, have collected more than £300,000 to build a new learning centre.

The two-storey complex, down the road from the mosque in Fishwick, will provide 150 Muslim children with a place to study and learn about Islam after school from 5-7pm.

Work is due to start in the next few weeks and it is expected to be up and running in about 12 months.

Mosque leader Ayub Bapu said: "I've lived in the area for 30 years and I'm delighted that this is finally happening.

"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."

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.

The building, a former builders' merchants, was bought by the mosque 15 years ago. When complete, 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."