PEOPLE are being urged to stay safe as they enjoy this weekend’s Eid Al-Adha celebrations.

Bradford Council said there had been a "brilliant response" by the Muslim community and mosques to local advice and guidance issued by the local authority and faith partners - but the rates of infection are still rising and the virus has not gone away.

A spokesperson said: "Traditionally, Muslims would celebrate Eid-Al-Adha - the festival of sacrifice - on July 31 moon sighting dependent) with congregational Eid prayers in a Mosque or open spaces such as a local park, followed by communal eating and visiting with family and friends, but many restrictions on social distancing are still in place. This Eid-Al-Adha will therefore be different.

"Everyone is urged to enjoy themselves but to keep to the regulations to prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

"The actions to keep the virus away are simple – celebrate Eid at home if possible but if you do go out – stay 2 metres apart, don’t shake hands or hug, wash or sanitise your hands often and wear a face covering.

"When celebrating with family or friends, please remember only members from two households can meet together indoors or a maximum of six people from different households if outdoors."

Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, the Leader of Bradford Council, said: “We understand how frustrating it must be to remain socially distant especially as everyone wants to return to normal. But there is a real risk of local lockdown if we don’t keep respecting the regulations.

“Eid celebrations earlier in May this year had to take place in total lockdown.  Muslim residents were very self-disciplined during this time and I’m grateful for that.  I would ask everyone to make a special effort yet again to continue to comply with Government guidelines.

“The virus has not gone away and still poses a risk to everyone so please keep this in mind this weekend.  Please do not mix with different households.

"I would like to wish our Muslim communities a safe and happy Eid – Eid Mubarak.” 

Superintendent Marc Adams, of Bradford District Police, added: “For a number of years, we have worked closely in partnership with Bradford Council, and alongside other agencies, local businesses and residents in preparation for Eid.

“The local authority and police response includes an increased police and partnership presence including authorised traffic control measures. The safety of all members of the public is our number one priority. Any road closures are carefully considered to ensure the safety of residents and road users to ensure the free flow of traffic around the city and keep disruption to a minimum.

“As a partnership we are continuing to urge people to observe social distancing rules and to follow Government and public health guidance. Throughout the period of lockdown measures, officers in Bradford have worked hard to engage with all communities within the district around social distancing to make everyone safe.

“Above all, we want to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable Eid.”