BRACKNELL Forest Council has been gearing up for Ramadan at home this week.

Ramadan, which started on Thursday, (April 23), is the most holy month of the year for Muslims and includes a total fast between sunset and sunrise each day.

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It is an important time for Muslim communities in Bracknell Forest and across the world, and it will be a very different experience this year for Muslims due to the COVID-19 social distancing measures, which are in place across the country.

The Muslim Council of Britain has released advice and information on how to continue the traditions and community spirit of Ramadan without breaching the government regulations.

Top tips for Ramadan at home, including home and virtual iftars, are available online.

There are also sections on keeping healthy during Ramadan, how to cope at home throughout, whether people are working, studying or just staying indoors and advice for mosques and prayer facilities.

Cllr Paul Bettison, OBE, Leader of Bracknell Forest Council, said: “Firstly I want to wish our Muslim communities Ramadan Mubarak and may this holy time bring you peace and good health.”

“We know how important Ramadan is to our local communities and Muslims across the world, and how this year Ramadan will be a very different experience for many during the COVID-19 lockdown, which is in accordance with public health advice.

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“We want to encourage our Muslim communities to heed the advice of the Muslim Council of Britain, by undertaking Ramadan at home. Prayers and iftars can be carried out in the safety of your own homes with your own households and virtual online meet ups rather than in person.

“We know our communities are sensible and understanding so please encourage each other to adhere to the regulations; staying at home means we can keep each other safe and protect our key workers.”