Muslim leader who embraced protesters given award

A Muslim leader has been recognised after he embraced protesters outside a mosque in the aftermath of the Southport attacks.

Crowds gathered outside the Abdullah Quilliam Mosque in Liverpool in August after misinformation was spread online about the knife attack suspect.

A counter-demonstration drew hundreds of people and, once the situation had calmed, Adam Kelwick crossed over to speak to those present and images of "beautiful interactions" between Muslims and protesters went viral.

After receiving the most impactful imam accolade at the British Beacon Mosque Awards, Mr Kelwick said: "I was just being nice to people who were being nasty."

Mr Kelwick said he took food over and shook hands with protesters outside the mosque "when things had calmed down".

The 42-year-old said there were "beautiful interactions" as the group from the mosque were able to "break bread" and listen to some people's concerns in "deep conversations".

Photographs showed the sharing of food, hugs and handshakes.

"Some of the most vocal protesters, after everyone else had gone, came inside the mosque for a little tour," Mr Kelwick added.

He said he was "grateful" for the honour which recognised the work he had done during the riots but added "it wasn't just about me".

"I'm dedicating this award to the people of Liverpool, who really came together during difficult times," he said.

"For those who knew better than to blame a whole religion for the evil actions of one person.

"For those who came to defend our mosque and our communities.

"Even for those who protested, but later reflected and opened their hearts."

Mr Kelwick has volunteered for several community organisations since his early teenage years and is also a humanitarian aid worker as well as being involved with charities.

The Beacon Mosque Awards, now in its seventh year, recognises the effort and hard work of mosques and leaders.

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