Members of the public came together at the Alton Assembly rooms in an act of solidarity and unity as they shared a meal.

The event took place on September 14 and was organised by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. Residents were joined by representatives from parish councils, borough councils, public services and businesses.

The Ahmadiyyas had planned to host the event to bring people together after the riots that took place across the UK.

Councillor Andy Tree began formal proceedings by giving a brief history of the Ahmadiyya community and their practices in the local community. The talking point that resonated most with residents was the Ahmadiyyas starting the new year by cleaning up the streets in their local communities.

Cllr Tree was followed by keynote speaker Rafiq Ahmed, Hayat president of the Ahmadiyya Muslims in the UK. He was keen to educate people on the meaning of the word “Jihad” in Islam. Hayat was also keen to display that in Islam, the word often means “inner-strife”, the spiritual struggle between oneself and sin.

Hayat said: “Today I met lots of lovely people here and they felt they could relate to what we are saying reflecting how faith works and bring people together and not tear them apart. I hope that went people go home they will feel they have learned something about faith.”

Hayat also sang the praises of East Hampshire District Cllr Adeel Shah who helped organise the event and bring everyone together.

He commented: “People can easily connect with Adeel due to the honesty and that is what a lot of the community finds.”

Residents discussed local housing targets, what to do with sleepy passengers on trains and personal stories of joy and laughter. After the meal, people got more chances to ask Mr Hayat and other guest members questions.