BRADFORD’S mosques will be throwing their doors open to the public this weekend as part of Visit a Mosque Day.

A dozen mosques in the district are taking part in the event on Sunday, so more people from different backgrounds can learn about the role a mosque plays in the Muslim community.

Rifaqat Ali, of the West Bowling Islamic Society, said: “This is an excellent opportunity for non-Muslim members of our community to visit a mosque close to them to have a guided tour, obtain information on the important role that mosques have within the Muslim faith and ask any questions that they may have in a relaxed environment over some refreshments.

“We received very positive feedback from all the visitors from last year’s event. I would encourage people to take this opportunity to visit a mosque.”

Councillor Abdul Jabar, executive member for neighbourhoods and community safety, added: "I hope many people will take this opportunity to visit participating mosques to experience the part they play in the lives of their fellow citizens.

“Although beliefs and cultures may differ, values of tolerance, fellowship and community are shared by everyone.

“By discovering the relationship people have with their mosque, non-Muslim visitors may be surprised to learn not what differences they have, but just how much they share in common with regular worshippers.”

The full list of mosques which will be open is:

- Masjid Quba, Church Street, Manningham. From 11am to 1pm.

- Al Markaz Centre, Beckside Lane, Lidget Green. From 11am.

- Abu Bakr Masjid, Steadman Terrace, Barkerend. 12pm to 5pm

- Madni Masjid, Newton Street, West Bowling. 12pm to 4pm.

- Masjid Doha, Claremont, Shearbridge. 12pm to 3pm.

- Madina Masjid, Spencer Road, Keighley. 11am to 3pm.

- Jamia Masjid, Bradford Road, Keighley. 12pm to 3pm

- Islam Bradford, City Road, Black Abbey. From 1pm.

- Markazi Jamiat Ahle Hadith Masjid, Camden Terrace, Manningham. 1pm to 3pm.

- Al Huda Masjid, Legrams Lane, Lidget Green. 2pm to 5pm.

- Jamia Tabligh ul Islam Masjid, Infirmary Street, Bradford city centre. 12pm to 5pm.