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Police investigate arson attack on mosque

BBC Street view image of the Masjid Al Aqsa mosque Blackburn, a red brick two-storey building with white windows and a cobbled side alleyBBC
Retrospective plans to convert the former two-storey nursery into a mosque were approved recently

Police are investigating an arson attack on a mosque in Blackburn.

The Masjid Aqsa mosque was set alight after a window was broken at about 01:43 BST on 28 June, Lancashire Police said .

The force said it was investigating to find "those involved and the motivation" for the attack on the Emerald Street building.

A spokesman for the mosque said its worshippers were "absolutely shocked and appalled" at the "deliberate and malicious act".

No arrests

The spokesman added: "We are a close-knit community that always stands ready to help anyone in need, regardless of race, culture, colour, or religion.

"This cowardly act will not divide us. It will only strengthen our resolve to stand together against hatred and intolerance."

Police said the fire was "quickly extinguished".

Retrospective plans to convert the former two-storey nursery into a mosque were recently approved by Blackburn With Darwen Council.

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