HUNDREDS of Muslims marched through the streets of Nelson in a procession to celebrate the birthday of the prophet Mohammed.

More than 300 people from all over East Lancashire and Bradford gathered at the Markazi Jamia Ghosia Mosque on Clayton Street and paraded through the streets stopping at various points to chant and praise Allah and take refreshments.

Brightly coloured bunting hung from the terraced streets and large banners were placed outside people's houses for private family celebrations.

As the crowd moved through the streets leaflets were distributed to onlookers to explain exactly what the march was all about.

Mosque representative Mohammed Asif explained: "This is the fifth year we have held the march and we have more people here than last year. "It is a peaceful celebration of the birth of our prophet and also reaffirms the religion to the younger Muslims who have been born in Britain.

"It is held to explain the background of the religion to the younger members of the community.

"We are happy he came to this earth and want to give thanks for his life."

After the march the walkers enjoyed a celebration meal in marquees which had been erected next to the mosque.

Mohammed was born in 570 and in 610 he received the first of a series of revelations which are detailed in the Koran and became the doctrine of Islam.

He is considered by Muslims to be the "seal of the prophets" - the final messenger sent by God.

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