LEYTON: Thousands join Milaad march (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

LEYTON: Thousands join Milaad march

3:51pm Monday 6th February 2012 in Waltham Forest News By Joe Curtis

THOUSANDS of Muslims marched despite the snow to celebrate the birth of the Prophet Muhammad.

The 5,200-strong Milaad march included Walthamstow MP Stella Creasy and council leader Chris Robbins on Sunday (February 5).

The Waltham Forest Islamic Association (WFIA) hailed the spirit of the walkers who braved the cold weather to carry banners and posters during the hour-long procession from Lea Bridge Road mosque in Leyton and around the surrounding streets.

Event organiser Bilal Mahmood said: “People were remarkably buoyant even though it was very cold. It was a chance to remember all the lessons Prophet Muhammad has taught us which bring us together, like friendliness, understanding and love.

“We have a diverse community: one street corner is very different from another, which makes that message all the more important.”

Miss Creasy and Cllr Robbins were both presented with shields for their services to the community at the event, which is the borough's 30th Milaad march.

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