A MUSIC promoter and radio presenter from Keighley will play a key role in using music to help foster peace and understanding between different religions.

Sabir Hussain – known as Saby Khan – will work with Manchester Reform Synagogue and Bradford Asian Radio to organise a series of interfaith events called "Abraham's Roots".

Saby was recently invited to the 160-year-old Manchester Reform Synagogue by rabbi Robyn Ashworth-Steen to attend a Hanukkah service.

He explained that after the service he discussed bringing both Muslim imams, and Christian priests to the synagogue to promote peace and unity thorough live music and entertainment.

He said the synagogue is well suited to this kind of initiative, as it has already been used as a base for hosting small interfaith events.

Saby added: "This is a great opportunity to promote peace and create awareness of the dangers of Islamophobia and antisemitism in the UK.

"Over the past two years there's been a sharp rise in Islamophobia and antisemitism across the UK and Europe. So I thought to myself that I could use my skills and contacts to promote Jewish- Muslim unity.

"There's been a lot of mistrust between Jews and Muslims for the past 80 years due to the Arab-Israeli conflict. But before that Jews and Muslims had lived side-by-side for the past 1,300 years.

"Now Muslims and Jews understand they need to be united.

"I have many young people who are interested in this project, as they feel their local community leaders aren't providing them with support in building awareness of interfaith work.

"These young people have been getting in touch with me to help provide something which will be both constructive and entertaining.

"Most of them are from Muslim and Christian backgrounds and feel neglected. They are looking to learn more about the Torah, Bible and Qur'an."

Abraham's Roots will host two events per year, with musical talent from Muslim and European countries coming to perform at Manchester Reform Synagogue and fundraising for UK charities.

Saby, who lives in East Morton, said: "This will feature all kinds of music, including mystical Muslim Sufi styles, Jewish and Christian mystical music as well as mainstream acts. The first event should be in May or June 2019.

"We'll also take part in helping refugees and homeless people, especially in the north of England.

"In addition to the Abraham's Roots project, I've been asked to produce a Manchester and Yorkshire-based love story film about a Jewish and Muslim couple.

"I'm looking to start production on the film next summer, with the support of the Muslim and Jewish business community in Manchester."

Musicians interested in being part of Abraham's Roots can get in touch with Saby by e-mailing him at goodfellaz_uk@hotmail.com or via Facebook at facebook.com/sabykhanmedia