Muslim key workers in Newcastle record special message to mark end of Ramadan this weekend

Muslim key workers in Newcastle have appeared in a video urging people to celebrate Eid at home and avoid social gatherings.

The video, which has been produced by Newcastle City Council, features doctors, nurses, pharmacists, ambulance service, council staff and fire rescue service making an appeal to the public.

As Ramadan comes to an end, nearly two billion Muslims across the world will be preparing to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, which is expected to fall on 24 May, subject to the sighting of the new moon.

It is traditionally celebrated with visits to family and friends, charity and gift giving, and special congregational prayers taking place in the morning.

But as large gatherings are prohibited and social distancing rules still in place, Eid is going to be very different this year.

Congregational prayers won’t be taking place as mosques and other places of worship remain closed. Mosques like Newcastle Central Mosque will instead live stream the morning sermon online.

The video calls on people to follow the latest government advice.

Guidelines for Muslims celebrating Eid have been drawn up by the Muslim Council of Britain who says people should celebrate virtually.

Councillor Clare Penny-Evans, Cabinet member for Climate Change and Communities said “I’d like to send my best wishes to Muslims celebrating Eid al-Fitr this year, albeit in very different circumstances. We are in unprecedented times with this global pandemic.

“The Muslim community have been very active and have ensured social distancing rules continue to be supported throughout Ramadan. The sacrifice they’re making for this Eid will hopefully bring a future of many more. Eid Mubarak.”

Watch our reporter Emily Reader's full report below: