Rochdale Council of Mosque’s annual 'Iftar' dinner

Guests at Rochdale Council of Mosque’s annual Iftar dinner

With Ramadan well underway, and the borough’s Muslims engaging in a month-long fast, the Rochdale Council of Mosque’s celebrated with its annual 'Iftar' dinner.

The meal, which marks the end of the day’s fasting after sunset, was attended by over 100 people.

Ramadhan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, in which Muslims fast as part of a devotional practice and abstain from eating, drinking and sensual pleasures during daylight hours.

The Vicar of Rochdale, Reverend Mark Coleman, joined mosque leaders, councillors and officers from Greater Manchester Police and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service at the dinner.

President of Neeli Mosque Soban Bashir delivered a speech about Ramadan and the reasons Muslims fast.

Dobir Miah, CEO of Rochdale Council of Mosque’s, said: “Thank you to everyone who attended and for making the evening an enjoyable and successful one. I would also like to thank Neeli Mosque management committee, staff and volunteers who worked tirelessly, despite fasting, to ensure everyone was fed and for providing some delicious food.

“The annual iftar is a community event, which moves from mosque to mosque and is open to anyone. If you’re interested in joining in a future event, please get in touch.”

The day of Eid heralds the end of Ramadan, which is expected in the first week of July.