Hundreds from across the region took part in the annual Shia march through a Blackburn neighbourhood at the weekend.

Crowds had gathered outside the Shia Islamic Centre at the corner of Addison Street and Preston New Road on Sunday in glorious sunshine.

Here, worshippers heard about the background of the commemoration, which is a deeply personal and solemn event as it signifies the death of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad.

The event is known as Ashura and worldwide it is held on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Muharram, the first month of the lunar calendar.

The date of the commemoration changes each year and in previous years the event has been held in sub-zero temperatures here in the UK.

The crowds slowly made their way into Addison Street and then Davenport Road and Montague Street, stopping every so often as the men chanted and beat their chests.

The procession then made its way back along Preston New Road and back toward the Shia Islamic centre.

The procession stops every so often as it makes it way through the streets

Young people were handed the opportunity to carry the large 20ft poles and flags at the front of the procession.

The march is organised and marshalled by volunteers who are keen to speak to any passers-by to explain the significance of the event.

Householders living in the area tend to watch from their windows or from their doorsteps as the group passes.

Similar processions were due to be held in Burnley, Preston and Manchester.