Thousands took part in one of Blackburn’s biggest Islamic marches.

The annual event, which attracts people from across the borough, was held on Sunday afternoon with crowds gathering outside the Raza Mosque on Randal Street. This year’s numbers were estimated to be around 3,000.

The procession, which lasted around an hour, was held to commemorate the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and is one of several that take place across the region.

The march began at noon at the Raza mosque on Randal Street and then made its way along Victoria Street and back up Randal Street towards Shear Brow.

From there, crowds headed along London Road, down Earl Street and onto Whalley Range and up Oak Street towards the Madina Mosque.

Organisers then hosted a number of talks and food was served to everyone who turned up.

Along the route businesses including the Marhaba Sweet Centre and Waheed’s Restaurant served delicacies to passers-by. Families also served food and drinks through the back of their cars.

The event is one of a number that take place in the North WestWhalley Range itself was decorated with colourful balloons and children carried flags throughout the march.

Faisel attends every year.

He said: “It is a great day out for the family. There is always a lovely atmosphere and we enjoy meeting people.

“A big thank you to the volunteers and everyone who helps put on the event.  We know it is not easy.”

Iftikhar went along with his children.

He said: “It is great to meet people you have not seen for ages.

“We come every year and also attend other similar events.”

Roads were closed only as the march passed and not for the duration of the whole event with a large team of volunteers on hand to help with crowd control.