MUSLIM leaders claim parents were too afraid to let children attend classes at an Islam centre after two fires in a week.

Firefighters were called to the centre, in Holden Street, Clitheroe, twice in four days a fortnight ago.

On one occasion, the building was set on fire, while on the second, last Monday, a car next to the centre set alight.

The car was on land which is subject to a controversial planning application for a mosque.

The latest application put up by the local Muslim community has been refused by Ribble Valley Borough Council's planning and development commitee.

But now community leaders say parents are reluctant to let their children attend the nightly religious classes at the centre for fear of attack.

The children go to the Islamic learning centre from 5pm - 7pm every day.

Mohammed Sarfraz, a community leader, said: "Worried parents are reluctant to let their children go to the centre as they fear that there could be another unwarranted attack.

"This time around we might not be as fortunate to not have children inside."

He added: "In order to ensure added security, some of the local neighbours are keeping an eye on troublemakers."

The two attacks have left the interior of the building charred. Windows were also smashed.

The second attack led to a car being destroyed by fire. The car was an eight-year-old Honda and belonged to Abid Ali, who lives next door.

Mr Sarfaraz added: "In spite of the two attacks the local Muslim community has resolved to appeal for a grant so that they we construct a mosque as an extension to the Islamic learning centre."

There was fierce local opposition to the mosque.

However, local vicar Rodney Nicholson has backed the plan for the mosque, saying all faiths should be welcomed into Clitheroe.