BASINGSTOKE’S mosque is opening its doors to people of all faiths and religions for a chance to learn and discover more about Islam.

The Albirr Foundation Mosque, in Sarum Hill, is inviting people to come along to visit the place of worship on Sunday, 11 February in a bid to break down barriers around the religion.

As part of Visit My Mosque Day, members of the mosque will be on hand to answer any questions visitors may have as well as giving a guided tour of the building.

Visit My Mosque Day is now in its fourth year and organisers say it has proven to be a successful initiative, showing the work Islamic communities do in the areas they live in a variety of ways ranging from hosting blood donations banks to providing free meals to the homeless.

Imam at the Albirr Foundation Mosque Mohammed Achbib said: “We want people to feel welcome in the mosque and we want them to know that this is a place of worship and that Islam is a peaceful religion.

“There is a huge misconception about Islam and what a mosque symbolises, so we want to welcome in the local community and break down those barriers and build a line of communication.

“We don’t want to be secluded from the rest of society and that is what this open day is all about, it is about opening our doors and showing what kind and peaceful people Muslims are.”

Basingstoke’s MP Maria Miller is due to be in attendance as well as the mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, Councillor Paul Frankum.

In November 2017 Mrs Miller spoke to members of the town’s Muslim community and Imam Achbib said she looked forward to working with the Imam and noted the increasing importance that the mosque has on creating a diverse Basingstoke.

The Albirr Foundation is a charitable organisation which annually organises Qur’an-based competitions in the United Kingdom, thus encouraging and rewarding the efforts of the young participants and learners of the Qur’an.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s cabinet member for communities and community safety Cllr Simon Bound added: “Basingstoke is a fantastic culturally diverse borough and this is a great opportunity to learn more about this faith and to meet new people. For those who have always been curious to ask questions about the religion then this is your chance.”

The open day will run from 11am until 5pm to allow Muslims and non-Muslims to take the opportunity to show solidarity amid fears of rising Islamophobia.

To find out more, go to albirr.com.