Over 120 people gathered in the 1877 Suite at the Toughsheet Community Stadium this week for the second annual Bolton Wanderers in the Community (BWitC) Iftar.
Attended by club Chairman Sharon Brittan, Mayor Mohammed Ayub, Imam Imran Hussein and Leader of Bolton Council, Councillor Nick Peel, Iftar is the daily fast-breaking evening meal observed by Muslims during Ramadan.
During the event, there was a Quran recitation from Imam Imran Hussein – a graduate of Al Azhar University in Cairo – as well as speeches from Sharon Brittan and Chief Executive Officer of BWitC, Phil Mason.
In addition, teachers from St. Michael’s Church of England Primary School in Bolton shared their reflections on Ramadan and showcased some of their pupils’ work. A Nasheed performance from young attendee Mohammad Rahim Khan followed, before Mus’ab Abdul-Karim led the group in a call to prayer.
After breaking the fast, guests were invited to observe the Maghrib Prayer, before enjoying a delicious buffet of lamb curry, vegetarian curry, samosas, and roti, followed by Shahi Halwa for dessert.
Sharon Brittan, Chairman of Bolton Wanderers said: “Hosting this Iftar event at Bolton Wanderers allows the Bolton family to experience our town’s diverse cultures and is a heartwarming reflection of our shared values.
“To witness and be part of such a profound celebration is deeply moving for me. It’s shows the power of community and the strength found in our diversity.
“I am delighted that we had this opportunity to welcome everyone to the Toughsheet Community Stadium and meet so many wonderful and inspiring people.
“Together, we are nurturing a sense of belonging and unity that defines what makes our club, our community and our town truly special.”
Alongside all those who attended and contributed to the event, Bolton Wanderers in the Community would like to thank Shabnum Bashir for all her hard work planning and delivering the event, as well as Bolton Solidarity Community Association and Bolton Stadium Hotel.