POLICE officers took off their size nines and observed Friday prayers at a Cradley Heath mosque to build better community relations.  Sergeant Colin Gallier and PC Brian Steatham, from the Cradley Heath and Old Hill Neighbourhood team, joined worshippers at the Baitul Mahdi mosque on School Street.

Dr Masood Majoka, President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association Cradley Heath Branch, said: "We were delighted when officers from the local neighbourhood accepted our invitation as part of an ongoing commitment to learn more about each other and to discuss ways in which we could work together in creating a harmonious society.”

He added: “Indeed that is the very purpose of Islam which means 'peace' and is a duty for every Ahmadiyya Muslim Man or Woman where ever they live.”

Sgt Gallier explained that the visit was part of a longer process of familisation with local muslims.

He said: "Over the last 12 months my team and I have been given the opportunity to get to know and work with representatives from the Ahmadiyya Muslim community through the mosque and schools.

"We have thoroughly enjoyed learning more about the Ahmadiyya culture and have been able to build strong links with both the younger and elder members of the community.”

He added: "We will continue to work closely with the Ahmadiyya community and build on the relationships we have developed.

"I believe that the Ahmadiyya code ''Love for all, hatred for none'' sets a great example to us all."

For more information about the Ahmadi Muslims, contact Dr Majoka on 07748 725901.

Or visit our website www.loveforallhatredfornone.org.