Peace walk by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Elders Association raises £10,000
Around 150 people gathered at Baitul Aziz Community Centre in Horwich for the 41st Annual National Beacon of Peace Charity Walk.
The event on Sunday, June 28, which was organised by the AMEA, aimed to promote community cohesion and raise funds for various causes.These included the Masroor Eye Hospital and Masroor Medical Institute in Burkina Faso and the Gift of Sight Projects across West Africa.The charity walk, which started and ended at the Baitul Aziz Mosque in Bolton, saw residents and leaders walk around a nearby lake.
The event began with a traditional recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by a welcome address from the Beacon of Peace Regional Coordinator, Muhammad Kashif, and Mansoor Ahmad Khan, Assistant President AMEA.
Several officials shared words of appreciation, recognising the importance of the initiative in bringing together people of all backgrounds, faiths, and communities.
The ceremony ended with a silent prayer before the walk was officially started by the Mayor of Wigan.Participants, including men, women, and children, then embarked on a 5 km circular walk around Lower Rivington Reservoir.
Volunteer marshals guided and supported walkers throughout the event.This marked the first regional Beacon of Peace Walk in the North West to be hosted at Baitul Aziz Community Centre in Horwich since the site was secured in November 2024.The event concluded with a complimentary community lunch and an appreciation gathering, celebrating the unity and community spirit shown by everyone who took part.
A panel of guest speakers and officials addressed the gathering, appreciating the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association for its dedication to social work, interfaith dialogue, and charitable initiatives both locally and globally.
Key speakers included James Talbot, Councillor for Wigan Council, Ian Aldcroft, Councillor for Horwich Town Council, Phil Jones, President of the Rotary Club of Bolton, and Dr Chichi, representing IBO Ladies in Diaspora Aid and Former Councillor for Salford.
The event marked a significant step in community unity, with funds raised going towards international and local humanitarian efforts.
