A Preston mosque recently the subject of racist messages is to open its doors for Ramadan.

Masjid-e-Salaam is holding an open day to explain more about the Ramadan period.

Mosque representative Amjad Bapu said: “We have held these open days before but in the climate of these terror attacks, it is really important that we stay strong together and celebrate our wonderful communities.

“We would be so happy for visitors to come see us. After the New Zealand attacks, we got overwhelming support from everyone and especially from the local churches. We also stand in firm solidarity with the Christian community after the Sri Lanka attacks.”

The open day includes guided tours of the mosque.

Read more: What it was like inside one of Preston’s mosques

Masjid-e-Salaam had three racist messages dubbed on its gate posts during the Easter weekend.

Gavin Edghill, 47, of Lower Bank Road, Fulwood, pleaded guilty to five counts of racially aggravated criminal damage, one offence of racially aggravated public order and a further five counts of criminal damage.

He was charged with graffiti at the mosque in Watling Street Road and also on the sign of an NHS building nearby. He is due to be sentenced in May.

Prestonians are invited to look round on Sunday 28 April from 11am to 3pm. Anyone attending is asked to ‘observe modest dress’, with shirt and trousers for men and ankle length skirts or loose trousers for women and a full blouse/dress and head scarf (spare scarfs available at venue).

Read more: Preston Muslim Group visits Deepdale care home