A family is counting its blessing after being given a fish with scales spelling out the name of Allah in Arabic.

The fish was a gift to 60-year-old Raja Rab Nawaz, of Blackburn, from a friend in Rochdale.

"Everyone who has seen it so far is convinced that you can see the word Allah in Arabic on the side", said Mr Nawaz.

"We have only had it a couple of days and the attention it is getting is remarkable.

"People seem to be coming from everywhere to take a peek.

"The word has slowly got out and people have started coming to our house to view the fish.

"We don't normally turn people away but it has got quite hectic at times," said Mr Nawaz.

"People are friendly enough and are just curious to have a look at the fish. We have no intention of selling it on," he added.