An Islamic celebration has gone on to help others in the community with more than £1,500 donated to good causes in Ipswich.

Raising donations was a crucial part of the Eid al-Adha Jama'ah prayer that was held on the lawn of Christchurch Mansion on Sunday, June 16.

This was the second such prayer held by the Park Select Committee, the first being in April for Eid al Fitr - which raised £1,060 for Suffolk Refugee Support. 

This time the ceremony saw more than 1,300 people attend, undeterred by showers that took place during the prayer. 

The committee ended up raising £1,640 - which has been donated to East Anglia's Children's Hospices (EACH).

The charity has been rated 'outstanding' by the Care Quality Commission and delivers life-long support to families and cares for children with life-threatening conditions.

Anne Austin, right, is a community fundraiser at EACH and Cllr Ruman Muhith, right, is a part of the Park Select Committee.Anne Austin, right, is a community fundraiser at EACH and Cllr Ruman Muhith, right, is a part of the Park Select Committee. (Image: Shikhar Talwar)

Anne Austin, the community fundraiser at EACH, said that the charity relies on donations for the majority of its income.

She added: "This kindness means that the children, young people and their families currently in our care will continue to receive an outstanding family-centred, needs-led service.

"At EACH, we ensure that all of the needs of the children, young people and their families we care for are met – whether those needs be psychological, physical, emotional, social or spiritual."

Ipswich councillor Ruman Muhith, who is part of the Park Select Committee, said that he was glad to see so many people make it to the prayer even after the downpour. 

He said: "We are delighted to announce that through the generosity of the Muslim communities, we raised £1,640 for EACH.

"This contribution will help them continue their crucial work, ensuring the best possible quality of life for children and their families during challenging times." 

Shaykh Masum Shaheed said that this charity is something mentioned in the QuranShaykh Masum Shaheed said that this charity is something mentioned in the Quran (Image: Shikhar Talwar)

Shaykh Masum Shaheed, another member of the select committee, said he wants to ensure that the religious values of the event are maintained. 

He said: "As Muslims who have gathered in the park, a central part of our religion is to help others and also to give in charity. 

!If you look at our Holy Quran, there's a lot mentioned about charity and how we need to help one another."