Pictures – annual Bolton walk for Prophet Muhammad’s birthday

Thousands of Muslims gathered for an annual walk celebrating the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), with people travelling from across the UK and Europe.

The event took place on Sunday, August 23, beginning at 1pm and finishing at around 3pm.

(Image: Phil Taylor)

The walk started at Makkah Mosque near Rishton Lane, before making its way past the Derby Street area and finishing at the 3D Centre Marriage Hall.

The event was followed by the main gathering at the marriage hall, where refreshments and food were available.

People travelled from places including Spain, Italy, Scotland and Cornwall to take part in the previous walk in 2023.

(Image: Phil Taylor)

The event also included remembrance of Sufi Mushtaq, a well-known local figure who died several years ago.

Bilal Ahmed, an organiser, previously said: “He passed away four or five years ago, but he was a good local figure for the younger people on the streets in Bolton.

“He was really influential.”

(Image: Phil Taylor)

The annual gathering comes as Bolton’s Muslim community continues a tradition with roots stretching back to the late 1950s and 1960s.

Early migrants from India and Pakistan came to the town to work in its textile mills, helping establish communities which remain an important part of Bolton today.

Pictures by Phil Taylor.