A Bradford mosque will today open its doors to people of all races and religions for a special service to condemn the barbaric killing of Drummer Lee Rigby.
The Jamia Masjid Hanfia Mosque on Ambler Street is expecting about 400 people to join its ‘United We Stand’ event in memory of the soldier, who was attacked as he returned to his barracks in Woolwich on May 22 Members of the mosque and other speakers will condemn the 25-year-old’s killing and talk about Muslim teachings between 11am-2pm.
One of the organisers, Amjad Ali, said: “What happened in Woolwich was horrifying. There are no words to describe it and we hope and pray it never happens again.
“We want to say we don’t accept this and it is not in our name. We have been here a long time, this is our home and we do not want unrest in Bradford.
“We are going to highlight the importance of integration in society and that Muslims in Bradford stand for justice, peace and harmony.
“The school of thought we follow shows no extremism against anybody.
“We are trying to get as many people here from all races and religions. We will have three or four speakers, giving speeches in English about what’s happened and we will lay some flowers in Drummer Rigby’s memory.
“We will also remember our soldiers and follow countrymen. It is not ‘us and them’, we are all one.”
People at the mosque yesterday discussed Drummer Rigby’s death during Friday prayers, as an inquest was opened and adjourned at Southwark Coroner’s Court.
On Thursday, Michael Adebowale, 22, of Greenwich, appeared in court charged with the soldier’s murder. He is due to appear again at the Old Bailey on Monday.
A second man Michael Adebolajo, who was arrested on suspicion of the killing, last night remained in hospital after being shot by police at the scene of Drummer Rigby’s death.
Meanwhile, members of the English Defence League are expected to visit Bradford today to place flowers at Bradford Cenotaph in Drummer Rigby’s memory at 11am.
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