BOLTON’S Muslim community will back efforts to pay tribute to murdered aid worker Alan Henning.

Dad-of-two Mr Henning was brutally killed by Islamic State fighters, who released a barbaric video of his death on Friday – nine months after he left Bolton in a 20-vehicle convoy carrying aid for the people of war-torn Syria.

Stunned by the former taxi driver’s death, well-wishers launched two internet funds aimed at delivering projects in Mr Henning’s memory.

By Tuesday night, 1,200 contributors had raised a combined £30,000.

Representatives of the Bolton Council of Mosques said they wanted to ensure Alan’s heroic acts are preserved forever.

“We would now like to support the funds set up to help provide financial support for Alan’s family and other ongoing projects to benefit those in need to ensure his legacy continues,” read their statement, released on Tuesday night.

The brutal video of Alan’s death was put online during the Muslim celebration of Eid and, in their statement BCoM made the poignant contrast between the joy Eid brings and the pain and devastation suffered by the Hennings.

It said: “The Muslim community around the world celebrated Eid with their loved ones recently.

“But, for one family they were without their loved one, Alan Henning, a hero, who voluntarily went to Syria to assist those in need.

“Those in Bolton who knew him will remember him as a tireless and selfless humanitarian aid worker.

“It is quite clear that the people responsible for the killing of Alan have no regard for Islam, or for the Muslims around the world who pleaded for his life and safe return.”

The statement added: “We send our heartfelt condolences to Alan’s family and friends at this unbearable time.

“We also endorse the Muslim Council of Britain’s statement – which called the murder “a despicable act”.

“Alan was a friend of Muslims, and he will be mourned by Muslims.

“Alan’s murderers have clearly gone against that spirit of Islam.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.”