A MUSLIM group celebrated 100 years in the UK with an awards ceremony at its Halesowen mosque, recognising community work.

Sainsbury’s PR Ambassador Jo Thatcher accepted an award on behalf of the Blackheath store from the Ahmaddiya Muslim Association in recognition of services to the community, which included raising more than £12,000 for Comic Relief last month.

Other organisations, including the Royal British Legion, also received certificates which were handed out by Dudley Mayor Melvyn Mottram.

Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP James Morris, Dudley Mayores Michele Mottram, councillors, church leaders and representatives of charities and the police also attended the event at the Long Lane Baitul Ghafoor Mosque.

Leading Muslim scholar Maulana Ataul Mujeeb Rashed, Imam of the London Mosque, was guest speaker, emphasising loyalty to the country and service to the community.

Association outreach worker Toby Ephram said: “Ever since our first members arrived in 1913, we have been committed to working for peace. We are grateful for living in a land like Britain where we have complete freedom to practice and share our faith.

“It, therefore, becomes incumbent upon us to serve the community and the country."