THE deputy mayor is determined to make Warrington 'the best place for communities to live in harmony' following a successful mosque open day yesterday, Sunday.

More than 200 people attended the event, which was organised by Warrington Islamic Association, at the Islamic centre in Bewsey, on Lockton Lane.

Presentations were held to help residents learn more about the religion and a similar event is already being lined up to take place in November.

Deputy mayor Cllr Faisal Rashid was on hand to greet those who attended, including University of Chester representatives, and believes it will help 'challenge the misconceptions' in society.

He said: "The response was good – many people from different faith groups across the town came.

"It was nice to see people there talking about everything together and was a bit of an eye-opener.

"We had presentations and a question and answer session. I have already spoken to the committee and requested another event in November – we are planning to have two events a year.

"We have a diverse community in Warrington and events like this will encourage people to visit.

"But the mosque is always open as a place of worship for anybody. I want to promote greater integration to help people learn more about each religion.

"I want Warrington to be the best place for communities to live in harmony with each other."

The event was part of the #VisitMyMosque campaign set up by the Muslim Council of Britain.