The Sikh community in Waltham Forest have gathered to mark the 40th anniversary of their place of worship.

Worshippers read prayers continuously for 48 hours as part of the celebration at the Gurdwara Sikh Sangat in Francis Road, Leyton, which was attended by the Mayor of Waltham Forest, Cllr Christopher Robbins.

Cllr Robbins wore a turban as he joined in the celebrations and was presented with a ceremonial scarf and books.

He said: “I'm delighted to add my congratulations on your 40th anniversary. The Gurdwara and the people who use it are a great example of what is best about Waltham Forest.

“The Sikh tradition is maintained in a safe and friendly environment and provides a base for outreach into the wider community as well as the promotion of understanding and collaboration. I offer my best wishes for the next 40 years.”

After purchasing the former Christ Church Institute building in Francis Road in 1979, the Sikh community transformed it into the Gurdwara in less than three months. Services had previously been held in a nearby church hall.

The Gurdwara was officially opened by the Mayor of Waltham Forest Jack Hendon on November 18, 1979. At its opening it was reported that it would bring together a Sikh Community in Waltham Forest of 10,000 people.

Avtar Singh Rattan, who played a major part in bringing Sikhs in Waltham Forest together and raised money to build a Gurdwara in the borough, died aged 48 on the day he was due to sign the contact for the Gurdwara. His memorial service at Manor Park Gurdwara was attended by hundreds of people.

Close friend and borough councillor at the time Amarjit Devgun said: "This man spent his whole life helping the community where he lived. He was most sincere in his work and devoted a lot of time to the East London Sikh Sangat of which he was General Secretary"

His son, Dr Depinder S Rattan, the current President of the Sikh Sangat, spoke at the anniversary event of the vision of his father and how he collected donations every evening knocking on doors of community members.

Harvinder Rattan is an executive member of the Gurdwara. Talking about the history and impact of the Gurdwara on the community, he said: "Today we recognised the hard work and the sacrifices each one of our founders made and more importantly those that stood up and volunteered their services towards making this Gurdwara what it is today. We need to continue this legacy and make this Gurdwara a great place for everyone.

“The Sikhs in Leyton are truly blessed and are part of something far, far bigger. Our vision today, is the same as our founders had back in 1979; which is, this Gurdwara to be the focal point for the Sikh community.”