Hundreds of mosques across Britain will are set to hold a “Prayer for the Nation” in the wake of the terrorist attacks in Paris to underline their solidarity against Islamic extremism in this country.

The Mosques and Imams National Advisory Board, which represents more than 600 Muslim institutions, has written to all its members asking them to adopt the prayer as part of their Friday worship. It calls on Allah to protect the country and remain “loving and compassionate”.

“Make our hearts and minds aware of our heritage, fulfilling duties and responsibilities as a citizen of our country,” it reads.