SEVEN mosques in Bolton opened their doors today in an effort to extend a hand of friendship to neighbours of other faiths.

Members of the public had the chance to learn more about the Muslim faith as part of the national #VisitMyMosque day initiative.

The participating mosques were: Masjid-E-Noor-Ul-Islam in Prospect Street, Halliwell; MA Mission in Halliwell Road, Halliwell; Masjid Al Falah in Salisbury Street, Deane; Masjid-E-Ghosia in Caroline Street, Bolton; Zakariyya Jaame Masjid in Peace Street, Daubhill; Masjid-e-Taqwa in Holmeswood Road, Great Lever, and Makka Mosque in Grecian Crescent, Great Lever.

Sajid Malik, general secretary of the Makkah Mosque in Great Lever, believes the day was a welcome opportunity to allay fears and misconceptions.

He said: “We have taken part in this initiative because we believe it is important to educate our friends and neighbours about what our lives are about as Muslims, how we practice our religion, and what happens at a mosque.

“That is important at all times, not just because of things in the news at the moment.

“But as a religion, we have always welcomed people of all faiths with open arms.

“During Ramadan we held an open fast which was very well attended by people in the community.

“When you see people protesting against the building of mosques and other things like that, I want to speak to them and try to understand what their fears and concerns are.”