The first mosque in the city commemorating local history

Part of the history of the Second World War in a North Yorkshire town will be “preserved and celebrated” when the site is transformed into the area’s first mosque, the authors of the work promise.

Members of the Harrogate Islamic Society said they are aware that the former Home Guard Club has historical significance and want to ensure that everyone can still visit it once the refurbishment work is completed.

Association committee member Zahed Amanullah said fundraising took more than 10 years before a permanent place of worship was finally secured in Harrogate.

Amanullah said: “The external façade will be restored to the original appearance and character of the structure as far as possible.”

The Muslim community in Harrogate had existed for several decades and had grown to such an extent that it became necessary to consider a new site for a permanent mosque, Amanullah said.

He explained that the money to transform the former Home Guard Club in Belford Road had been raised from the community in Harrogate, as well as from people from other parts of Yorkshire.

Meanwhile, the crowdfunding campaign has also attracted further donations from across the UK.

However, Amanullah said that while work on site was currently in its second phase, it had not been entirely straightforward so far.

“It was in worse condition than we thought when we bought it. Part of the ceiling collapsed. It was really derelict so we had to look at our plans and do some emergency work to secure the building.

Work is currently underway to modify and stabilize the building and replace rotten wood, Amanullah said.

He added that this phase could take several more months before the final furnishings of the mosque can be completed.

Amanullah said: “One of the things we are really proud of is that the wider Harrogate community has been very welcoming and very supportive.

“Other faith communities in Harrogate have shown great support over the last year and throughout the turmoil across the UK. We want to thank everyone for this.”

Amanullah said that when the mosque was finally completed, the intention was to make it “open to the public.”

“Anyone who wants to visit should be able to visit – people who want to pray or see the building,” he said.

“We want to make sure we have an open door policy. It’s part of the Harrogate community.”

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