NEWLY-BUILT Chesham Mosque opened its doors to people of all faiths last Sunday as part of an initiative that is designed to bring the town's community closer together.

Attended by councillors and faith leaders, including the Chairman of Chiltern District Council Jeremy Banham, the Rev Kay Watters from Holy Trinity Church, Prestwood, and ex-Mayor Cllr Mohammed Bhatti, the open day attracted more than 1,700 people.

Cllr Bhatti said: "It was a huge success. This is an absolutely beautiful building of very unique architecture a jewel in the crown of Buckinghamshire there was a great mix of people of all faiths, young and old."

Visitors were given a guided tour of the mosque, seeing all aspects of the religious centre.

Chairman of the Chesham Mosque committee Mohammed Zafar was pleased with the day.

He said: "It is very important for the Muslim community to have contact with other faiths, especially now.

"We have a very good relationship with other communities and the day was more successful than we could have hoped."

Cllr Bhatti added: "All religions are welcome to come to the mosque and ask questions. Some people have never been into a mosque before. This is very good for community integration and good for business, as more people will come to visit Chesham because of it."