Community Spring Bazaar attracts visitors from far and wide

Emdad Rahman

Visitors from as far afield as Hampshire travelled to join in the revelry as hundreds of visitors attended the Newbury Park Islamic Cultural Centre’s (NPICC) Spring Bazaar at the Royal legion Hall, Ilford. The fun event included activities for families, including a delicious cake sale, a flower stall, Henna art, face painting, delicious food, a bouncy castle and a fruit Mojito bar.

The event was organised, led and delivered completely by volunteers. “It’s been hard work, but it’s worth it all after seeing so many smiling faces,” said Khaleda, a volunteer at the event. “This is a great way of bringing people together. Apart from helping out I have enjoyed catching up with a lot of friends and family.”

“The cakes were very pretty and sweet,” said Liza, 9. “I had a fun time today. It was nice and everybody was smiling.”

Maryam said: “Everyone has been really friendly and I think fun days help bring people closer together. Because it’s a family event I have seen people here today who wouldn’t normally leave their homes. That’s a really great thing.”

Chair Mohammad Shahidullah said: “It has been a pleasure welcoming so many people here. The day was a great success with lots of fun for everybody.”

Vice Chair Muhibul Haque added: “It was really nice to see such a nice mix of people here today and it was very satisfying that young and old alike came together to make this a special day.”

Photos: Jahir Hussain