The Gazette

Eid event brings fun to community

- By ANNA FERGUSON anna.ferguson@reachplc.com @TeessideLi­ve

IT was a day of food, fun and prayer as around 5,000 gathered in Middlesbro­ugh to celebrated Eid ulAdha. The event at Albert Park on Saturday was organised and funded by Middlesbro­ugh Central Masjid and brought Muslims together to offer Eid prayer and chance to celebrate with the whole community.

The day began at 9.30am and also saw families enjoy rides and stalls offering something for everyone.

The event was open to everyone regardless of their faith. This is the second outdoor Eid event organised by Middlesbro­ugh Central Masjid.

The first was May 2 in the Centre Square, Middlesbro­ugh, and hosted over 3,000 people.

Gohar Ihsan, Chairman of Middlesbro­ugh

Central Masjid, was one of the event organisers. He said: “As the event develops and grows, a lot more people will want to attend. It is a family event so everyone is welcome, whether they are a family of faith or not. We want a safe and fun event which is why we have moved to the park, giving more space.

“It allows people to learn more about Islam and ask any questions they have. It was a fun day, we had the sermon and a prayer, followed by rides, food stalls and henna artists. We had people across all of Teesside attend with diverse background­s and from all walks of life.

“Cleveland Police attended to discuss recruitmen­t options and answer questions from the community and the kids had a go of the blue lights. Middlesbro­ugh Football Foundation provided an outlet for sport activities and had some coaches there speaking to the children. The Deputy Mayor of Middlesbro­ugh and councillor of Nunthorpe, Mieka Smiles, attended and she gave a nice speech to the community.”

Middlesbro­ugh Football Foundation also attended the event. Officers from Cleveland Police attended to answer any questions regarding recruitmen­t and the role of the police in the neighbourh­ood.

THOUSANDS GATHER TO CELEBRATE RELIGIOUS FESTIVAL

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 ?? CENTRAL MASJID ?? The Eid ul-Adha celebratio­ns in Middlesbro­ugh’s Albert Park
CENTRAL MASJID The Eid ul-Adha celebratio­ns in Middlesbro­ugh’s Albert Park

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