A SPECIAL foodbank has been set up in Hyndburn during the Muslim holy month of Ramadhan.

Netherton councillor, Noordad Aziz, set up the East Lancs Ramadhan Foodbank so that fasting Muslims can donate the food they would normally eat.

The project has seen food collection points set up in every mosque in Hyndburn.

He said: “During the month of Ramadhan, we fast, and one of the reasons why, is to experience the hardships that certain individuals go through every day.

“It just made sense to me that, since we were going without food and water, we should use the money we would usually spend on meals and donate it to those in the community that are going hungry.

“I know that we are seeing many more people needing foodbanks in our area since the economic crisis and many people are starving.

“Ramadhan is all about giving. We will collect the food together on Friday and then again on August 3.

“Myself and other members of the Muslim community are going to take it to Community Solutions and volunteer with them to help pack it and deliver it to those in need.

“The great thing about helping a local charity is that we will get to meet the people we are helping and see the difference that we can make to the local community.”

Genevieve Waite, of Community Solutions, which is an organisation which supports local needs in a variety of different ways, including providing food parcels, said: “It’s amazing to see a local group taking their own initiative to support local needs.

“We are really grateful for all their efforts and feel honoured that they chose to work with us.”

The East Lancs Ramadhan Foodbank is asking everyone to get involved in the challenge, whaever their religious background.

They are asking for donations of non-perishable food and nappies which can be dropped off at Ghousia Masjid in Park Street or Madrassa Islamiya in Segar Street, both in Great Harwood.

Alternatively you can drop off at Accrington Mosques: Raza Masjid in Grimshaw Street, Ghousia Masjid in Richmond Hill Street, Faizan-e-Madina in Richmond Road or Madni Masjid in Empress Street.

Alternatively, you can call Mr Aziby calling the number 07983 641125 to arrange a collection

PUPILS ENTERING THE SPIRIT OF GIVING TO HELP OTHERS

PUPILS at Audley Junior School got into the spirit of giving.

Teaching assistant, Peter Shuttleworth, had the idea after pupils had been collecting Kellogg’s vouchers to help run their morning Breakfast Club at school.

He decided that the children should get involved in giving food to others less fortunate and realise the good feeling that comes from helping others.

Each child was encouraged to bring just one item of food on Monday to be donated to the Blackburn Foodbank and a total of 451kgs was collected.

It was the perfect lesson in helping others.