Maulana Muhammad Azam Chishti, Imam of Chishtiah Mosque

1st row, the late Maulana Muhammad Azam Chishti, Ghulam Rasul Shahzad OBE, the former Mayor Councillor Jean Hornby and Maulana Masood ur Rehman

On 12 January 2013, Maulana Muhammad Azam Chishti, Imam of Chishtiah Mosque, has passed away.

He was one of the founders member of the Rochdale Council of Mosques, Milad-ul-Nabi (pbuh) Committee, Crescent Community Radio, Chishtiah Book shop and Jamia Chishtiah on Milkstone Road, and personal services to thousands of people.

He went to Pakistan in Azad Kashmir where he suffered heart attack and stroke. He spent some time in Azad Kashmir and a few weeks ago he returned to Rochdale. He was treated locally, however, he did not survive the effects of the heart attack and stroke.

His funeral took place yesterday (Sunday 13 January) at Broadfield Park; a large number of ulema, spiritual and community leaders and thousands of people attended.

Close friend, Ghulam Shahzad, said:  "He was a very loving and respectful person and used to do his best to serve the community.

"He has contributed a lot to the local community and his death is a great loss to the people of Rochdale.

"Inna lillahe wa inna ilahe rajioon (From Allah we have come and to Him we have to return).

"May Allah grant him jannat and rest his soul in eternal peace. Amen."