THOUSANDS of people took to the streets for a march through Nelson to celebrate a major religious festival.

Up to 4,000 Muslims waving banners and flags joined a procession through the town, as part of Eid-un-Nabir, which celebrates the birth of the prophet Muhammad.

The procession set off from the Markazi Jamai mosque, Clayton Street, at midday and was joined by around 300 men from Brierfield mosque.

And participants didn't let the wet weather dampen their spirits they sheltered under umberellas and were given food by women who lined the route. The procession stopped in the Place de Creil for prayers.

Mohammed Arif, former secretary of Brierfield mosque, who helped organise the event, said: "Thousands of people took part in the march, which is not a protest which some people think it is it's organised by the youngsters and their teachers.

"It's a big celebration which is open to all colours and creeds which is about celebrating the prophet and recognising that as a human he has passed away but as a prophet is alive. It's a big day for the Muslim community."

A feast was held at the mosque at the end of the 2.5-mile route.

A number of rolling road blocks were in force, and police re-directed traffic away from the town centre.

Police traffic sergeant Martin Bishop said: "It is the biggest event in the year in Nelson in terms of numbers. Motorist faced short delays during the march but everything went according to plan."