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Key workers and the public sector were thanked for their efforts to keep the city going during the pandemic at a special event held in Preston

The Quuwatul Islam mosque, in Peel Hall Street, Preston hosted the ‘star’ studded occasion to celebrate and recognise many public services within Lancashire for all their efforts in supporting the community during the difficulties of the Covid pandemic.

Imam Khalid Ibrahim speaking at the event said: “As NASA discovers new stars and galaxies in the universe, Lancashire, and in particular Quwwatul Islam mosque, was blessed to host such auspicious local ’stars’ of our own.”

He spoke to a specially invited audience which included, among others, representatives from the Coroners Office, Public Health, Preston City Council, hospital doctors, police, Registrars Office, cemetery staff and mortuary workers.

Dinner of thanks at Quuwatul Islam mosque

Adrian Philips, Chief Executive of Preston City Council speaking at the event, paid tribute to the enormous contribution made by the Muslim community during the pandemic.

He highlighted the work of the town hall via the Preston Faith Covenant which targeted support via the nominated faith representatives. He also recognised the important work carried out by the Lancashire Resilience Forum.

The event itself included the recitation of the Holy Quran, poems by the local madrasah children and a special presentation made by the senior and longest serving imam, Imam Ismail Daud.

Imran Pepe, committee member at Quwwat Mosque and an organiser of the event, said: “Muslim community are indebted to many of the various Lancashire services which had been invited to take part.

Welcome for guests to Quuwatul Islam mosque

"The speed of burial was paramount within the Muslim faith, and we are blessed with organisations in Lancashire who go the extra mile to help that happen.”

Imam Khalid said: “The event was a thank you to all the many services and individuals who had worked tirelessly and selflessly to serve all communities, but in particular my community, the Muslim Community of Preston.”

He added: “Gratitude is an important concept in Islam and that, he who does not thank the people is not thankful to God”.

Preston mosque honours city's key workers for work during Covid pandemic