A MOSQUE has donated prayer mats and copies of the Qur’an to police for the use of suspects detained at the Met's custody centre in Leyton.

It is part of efforts by police and Muslim leaders to improve their relations in Waltham Forest.

The donation was made by management at Noor Ul Islam Mosque in Leyton High Road, which is close to the custody centre in Hainault Road.

Noor Ul Islam Chairman Yusuf Hansa said: “Noor Ul Islam is committed to building a positive relationship with other agencies especially the Police Service to improve the community.

"We must work together for the common good.”

Waltham Forest Police's Detective Superintendent Ellie O’Connor said: “Broadening staff understanding about different cultural beliefs and practices can go a long way in assisting us to deal with people respectfully whilst they are detained in custody."