Preston City Council has agreed a request from the Muslim community to allow Preston based mosques to broadcast the sunset prayer, marking the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

This 2-3 minute prayer will be broadcast by loudspeaker by the various mosques as an alternative to the community's standard traditions and celebrations, which would contravene social distancing guidelines. The Mosques will remain closed until further guidance is provided by Government.

Councillor Matthew Brown, Leader of Preston City Council said, "We are keenly aware of how difficult it has been for our Muslim communities who have not been able to come together, pray and break their fast, as is their tradition during Ramadan.

"While this is not a real replacement for time spent celebrating with family and friends, I am proud we are able to support the community and offer a small way to mark the occasion. We believe this unique event will be of interest to the whole community and illustrates the benefit of genuine dialogue with faith leaders through the pandemic.''

"I would like to wish all who are celebrating, Eid Mubarak."

Mukhtar Master, Muslim representative for the Preston Faith Covenant, said, "We appreciate this gesture from Preston City Council, allowing us to recognise the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan in a new way, which is appropriate within the current restrictions.

"This is a very important time of tradition and celebration for our community. The gesture is symbolic and an act of solidarity which means a lot for our small community. All the mosques of Preston will be participating and will be hoping that our neighbours enjoy this unique event."