A mosque welcomed hundreds of people to its first open day.

In an effort to promote the true message of Islam, Al-Falah Islamic Centre in Silks Way, Braintree, opened its doors to more than 200 people on Saturday.

Imam Kashif Ahmad was inundated with positive responses after the open day, calling it a great success.

He said: “It was really good, better than we were anticipating. We had about 250 people come through our doors.

“Most people living in Essex have not met a Muslim person before or been inside a mosque.

“They only things they see is what is in the media after attacks and from terrorists claiming they are doing these things in the name of Islam.

“It was an opportunity to meet genuine Muslims and to get a correct understanding of what we believe in.”

The mosque provided refreshments for all and a bouncy castle for children, with gift bags and goody packs distributed to everyone.

The day was attended by MP James Cleverly, Essex County Council leader David Finch, Essex Police officers and several councillors.

Mr Ahmad added: “We want to show that although we believe in different things, we all want to live together in peace.

“People could come in, have a look around, see our exhibitions and talk to us.

“We had feedback forms from about 150 people filled in and it was all really positive.”

For more information visit braintreemosque.co.uk.