THE Muslim community in East Lancashire today began celebrating the festival of Eid Al-Adha.

The day commemorates the willingness of the prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son to God and is celebrated on the tenth day of the month of Zul-Hijja.

Coun Hussain Ahktar, who represents the Shear Brow ward in Blackburn, called on Muslims to use the occasion to show their willingness to work with other parts of the community in the town and beyond.

He also said he would be out and about urging young Muslims to celebrate with respect and not disturb other parts of the community.

He said: "I want the Asian community to use the occasion to show that they are willing to work shoulder to shoulder with other parts of the community for the good of Blackburn and other towns."