BLACKBURN with Darwen's Muslim residents have been urged to celebrate next week's Eid-al-Adha with care.

Falling on Tuesday or Wednesday, it will be the first major religious festival after the relaxation of Covid restrictions.

Cllr Mohammed Khan, Leader of the borough council, said: “For many families this will be their first Eid together since August 2019. After the last 16 months people are looking forward to celebrating.

“With case rates in Blackburn with Darwen still higher than other parts of England, I am urging everyone to be cautious.

“As Covid restrictions officially end on July 19 the government is asking us all to take responsibility for our own actions. This includes doing everything we can to protect ourselves and others, particularly the vulnerable.”

He asks people to be mindful of mixing with people who may be vulnerable; advises that it is a good idea to continue to carry face coverings for higher risk situations such as crowded indoor spaces; and urges residents to socialise outdoors where possible

Cllr Khan says that when celebrating indoors, people should remember to keep windows open to allow fresh air to circulate.

He urges residents to follow the basics of good hygiene by washing hands regularly and consider taking rapid lateral flow tests before meeting up with others, particularly vulnerable people.

Coun Khan added: “I hope people will have the best possible time this Eid, while also doing the right thing to protect themselves and their loved ones."