Bristol mosque open day to allay Ramadan noise fears Published duration 5 June 2015

image copyright Google image caption Albaseera Mosque is hosting an open day to address any concerns ahead of Ramadan which starts on 18 June

Muslims living in Bristol are taking action to avoid problems during this year's holy month of Ramadan after complaints about noise last summer.

Police met community leaders last July after some residents in Easton complained of disturbance at the time the fast ended at night.

Councillor Hibaq Jama said an open day at Albaseera mosque had been organised for non-Muslims to raise any concerns.

She said mosque members would also patrol the streets during the festival.

Last year some people living on Milsom Street complained about men "spilling on to the streets" late at night during Ramadan.

'Respectful and considerate'

Ms Jama, councillor for Lawrence Hill, said there had been "many, many conversations as to how we can tackle these problems".

She said: "Bristol is undoubtedly changing and with that comes a different culture and perhaps different practices. We are all learning how to deal with this.

"There have been many suggestions - the opening of the Albaseera mosque on Sunday.

"Also the idea of having stewards to patrol the area and tell people who are observing Ramadan to remain calm, remain respectful and considerate of neighbours who have to get up very early in the morning."

She said "in defence of Ramadan", that last year had been a "perfect storm" with "various football tournaments and nice weather".

About 8,000 Muslims live in east Bristol and the area has eight mosques.

Imam of Albaseera Mosque Abdi Djama said the open day had been organised to "to show people our respect for the neighbourhood".

The open day is on 7 June at the mosque, 20 Wade Street, St Judes, between 14:00 BST and 18:00.

Women are asked to "dress moderately and wear a headscarf".

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