Peterborough mosque stands against violence and issues message of reassurance
Positive messages are being sent to local communities
Communities in Peterborough are being told to stay united and rest assured they’re safe in the area they live in.
It comes as violence and unrest has taken place in other parts of the country since misinformation was spread online following the fatal stabbings of three girls in Southport two weeks ago.
Protesters believed to be linked to the far right planned to march the streets of towns and cities across the country over the past week, including in Peterborough, but minimal disruption was reported.
Instead, counter protesters peacefully gathered near an immigration centre on Lincoln Road, where what had been described as an advertised far-right rally was planned.
"We request everybody to stay calm"
Sajjad Ahmed, chairman of Faizan-E-Madina in Peterborough which is the largest mosque in the city, has been reassuring members of the local community following the protests.
"Other communities have also been worried on how to react to this, so we request everybody to keep calm and if you see any danger, call the police," he said.
"As we have a very strong connection with the faith communities, we were expecting every community to come out (to the peaceful demonstration)."
Mohammed Camran Arif, treasurer at Faizan-E-Madina, said the mosque is important in helping allay any concerns people may have.
"Community leaders, chairman and secretary of the Mosque would send out positive messages to make sure everybody keeps everyone in check in the area," he said.
"The main focal point comes back to the Mosque, which plays a big part in sending out messages to the community on how to react (to disorder).
"We're very close like neighbours; not everybody but most adults and some youngsters congregate to the Mosque five times a day, so in that sense, everybody comes together and the word gets out if you need any help."
Communities told to remain vigilant
Cambridgeshire Police, said it will continue "to work hard understanding those concerns and to reassure people.
“We have ensured we have the right level of resources across the county and have increased patrols over the past few days.
"We remain united in Cambridgeshire, and we are very proud of the rich diversity of our county."
The police force also encouraged "everyone to be cautious about what they read on social media, remain vigilant and if you see or hear anything that concerns you, please contact police".
In an open letter, Peterborough MP Andrew Pakes said he is "extremely grateful to our policing colleagues, council workers, faith leaders and community representatives for working tirelessly to keep us all safe.
"We need to speak as one voice to say that racism, Islamophobia and violence are not welcome here."
Ahead of the weekend, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said police should remain on "high alert" as unrest that started a fortnight ago appeared to have eased.