THOUSAND of Muslims celebrated the end of their month-long Ramadan fast yesterday with events that often included their neighbours of all religions.

The Church of England's Bishop of Burnley, the Rt Rev Philip North was welcomed by the congregation at the Masjid Ibrahim Mosque, in the town's Clegg Street to join in the Eid celebrations.

He even preached a brief sermon from the pulpit passing on greetings from the churches of Burnley and across Lancashire.

More than 1,000 worshippers packed the Chester Street Mosque in Blackburn before taking out the message to celebration with neighbours of all faiths.

Senior member of the congregation, Yaqoob Hussain, said: "It was a great celebration of the end of our fast as we took our message of happiness out to people of all backgrounds in the neighbouring streets."

Hundreds also packed the Markazi Jamia Ghousia Mosque in Able Street in Burnley to make the day and share food to mark the end of the month of fasting.

Prayers were said in Corporation Park, Blackburn, as well in preparation for a major Eid festival celebration next weekend.

Cllr Hussain Akhtar, last year's Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, said great celebrations were also held at the Randal Street Mosque which he attends.

He said: "This year we made a point of taking out Eid festivities to local people of all faiths and backgrounds."

Abdul Hamid Qureshi, chairman of the Lancashire Council of Mosques said: "This was a great day and a unique day as, possibly for the first time ever, a Bishop address the worshippers at an East Lancashire Mosque from the pulpit."

Bishop Philip said: “The disciplines of Ramadan of fasting and hospitality are an inspiration to all people of faith.

“This Ramadan has been a difficult one for British Muslims.

“These recent events, including the outpouring of sympathy and support for those affected, highlight the ongoing need to be loving and compassionate."