MP Wes Streeting has condemned the brick attack on the site of two shops which are set to be converted into an Islamic community centre.

Redbridge detectives are investigating the allegation of criminal damage against Woodford Muslim Cultural Centre (WMCC), in Snakes Lane East, Woodford Green.

They believe the brick was thrown, smashing a window, between 10.45pm and 11.59pm on Monday night (August 24).

People in the area yesterday (August 26) reported that there was an “atmosphere of tension” since the planning inspectorate appeal last month controversially gave the go-ahead for the site to be used as a place of worship.

Now Wes Streeting, Labour MP for Ilford North, has spoken out against the perpetrators of the incident.

He said: “There can be no excuses for this appalling act of vandalism and I hope that the police investigation finds those responsible so that they can face the full force of the law.

“This attack follows other reported incidents at the centre that appear to have been fuelled by anti-Muslim hatred.

“The harmony of our diverse community is something that is widely cherished and I have no doubt that the overwhelming majority of residents will be appalled by these incidents.

“I will be seeking a meeting with the Metropolitan Police, Tell MAMA and local community groups to see what we can do to improve safety and ease tensions in the local community.

“Anyone with information about these incidents should come forward to the police.”

Cllr Jas Athwal, leader of the Redbridge council, said he was "appalled" by the incident.

He said: "There is no excuse for violence, in any form, and this, alongside reports of other anti-Muslim incidents at the centre are truly despicable.

"They are pure and simply hate crimes - mindless acts of violence and threats against a centre because of its religion. 

"In Redbridge we pride ourselves on our diverse and vibrant community, this is one of our strengths which is recognised by those who live and visit our borough.

"We should celebrate this fact.

"I would urge anyone who knows anything about any of these incidents, or has seen something, to come forward and report it to police to help them with their investigation. 

"We should all do everything we can to assist police and ensure those responsible are bought to justice." 

To contact Redbridge CID call 101.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

The new Woodford Muslim Cultural Centre in Snakes Lane East, Woodford Green.