Community members from a Muslim society were given a celebratory feast during their Ramadan fast and an exclusive tour of a charity hospice last week.

Thirty-three members from Harlow Islamic Centre arrived at St Clare Hospice in Hastingwood at 8pm on Monday, May 27 to learn about the teams care of terminally-ill patients.

Following the tours and introductory talks, dates and juice were served during the call to prayer in the Hospice’s Day Therapy lounge

Hospice Doctors Abbas and Khan then provided a selection of food for the Iftar – the fast-breaking meal eaten after sunset.

Dr Qamar Abbas, medical director at St Clare Hospice, said about the event: “It was fantastic to welcome so many people from our local community to the Hospice, to join us for iftar and find out more about the expert, compassionate care we offer to those living in our local community.”

Abdur Rehman gave an explanatory talk about why and how Muslims observe Ramadan. The Hospice’s chief director, Sarah Thompson, thanked everyone for visiting.

Abdul Khaliq, secretary of the Harlow Islamic Centre, then presented Ms Thompson with a cheque for more than £200, comprised of donations from the mosque over the previous weeks.

Guests were then informed of the opportunity to support Dr Abbas’ forthcoming trek to Cambodia, where he will undertake the challenge to trek 95km over five days.

Neela Hibbert, from the Harlow Ethnic Minority Umbrella, worked with St Clare Hospice to arrange the visit, said: “It’s great that St Clare Hospice is engaging with faith groups, who were able to attend the Hospice and familiarise themselves with its work. Thank you for the invitation.”

Ramadan is to officially end today which will mark the beginning of the religious holiday celebration of Eid al Fitr.

To donate towards Dr Qamar Abbas’ charity trek across Cambodia, visit: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/QamarAbbas1