PEOPLE of all communities, faiths and backgrounds gathered at the peace garden in Burnley to pray for world peace.

The group gathered in the town centre alongside Burnley Council's chief executive Mick Cartledge, members of the council and faith and community leaders.

The event took place after a meeting with Mr Cartledge and community group Building Bridges, who discussed the importance of faith in the town.

Prayers were read from The Bible, The Qur'an and The Torah.

During the gathering, reverend Liz Jewitt, minister of the United Reformed Church said it was important for faith leaders and their congregations to share in the things they have in common, prayer being one of them.

She said: "We can learn to accept each other with trust and compassion, rather than fear and hatred.

"It is such an immense privilege to know that we can all contribute to the peace of this world through prayer.

"No matter what religion we profess, we can pray together for peace and begin to flourish in previously unthinkable ways."

Cllr Beatrice Foster, who represents Rosegrove with Lowerhouse on the council, said: "How good it was to see people of all faiths, backgrounds and cultures join together in the peace garden to pray for Peace in the World.

"A very moving gathering."

Building Bridges trustee Mozaquir Ali said: "We prayed for world peace, called for tolerance and living together in peace with one another as good neighbours, thus developing friendly relations among nations and promoting peace."