Muslims from across Birmingham and the West Midlands have come together to mark the beginning of Ramadan at a celebration event in the city’s Balsall Heath neighbourhood.

Welcoming the holy month, which is expected to begin on the evening of Friday 28 February, community members joined the festive gathering for speeches, stalls, charity activities, socialising and an array of Middle Eastern cuisine.

According to Saudi Arabian authorities, the first day of fasting for the ninth month in the Islamic calendar will be Saturday 1 or Sunday 2 March, depending on the sighting of the new moon in Mecca, although the start date can sometimes vary from country to country.

During the month, Muslims across the world will be fasting during daylight hours, focusing on spiritual introspection, prayer and abstinence.

Organised by humanitarian charity ISRA-UK, the Ramadan launch was held at the Moseley Community Hub, with guests from different faiths enjoying cross-continental culinary delights including quiches and pies, a selection of sandwiches, potato fritters and chicken wings, baklava, salads, north African Maaqouda, and a selection of desserts.

For more information, visit: israuk.org