A SPECIAL exhibition is taking place today to mark the beginning of Islam Awareness Week.

Hosted by Noor Ul Islam, in Leyton High Road, the exhibition is aimed at both Muslims and non-Muslims.

Yusuf Hansa, chairman of the board of trustees at Noor Ul Islam, said: “We had prayer at 1pm and again at 2.45pm and 4.15pm.

“We opened the doors so that people can watch how we pray.”

The exhibtion follows on from a larger event, held yesterday in Walthamstow town square, which attracted about 1,200 visitors.

Mr Hansa added: “It was raining yesterday but there were so many people. They came inside and had a hot drink – one woman event said it made her day.”

A talk on Islam will also be held tomorrow at Leytonstone library from 7pm and a children’s story-telling event will be held at Walthamstow library from 10.30am.

Today’s event was also aimed at debunking negative stereotypes about Muslims and included information on Islam and terrorism.

Mr Hansa said: “We want to welcome Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

“We don’t force people but we want to make them aware of what Islam is all about.

“We’re the same as anybody – of course there are some rotten apples but we want to live peacefully with the community at large.”

The exhibition included posters on Muslim scholars, homes and towns as well as the place of women within the faith.

Mr Hansa said: “We had a debate here about the veil. We wanted people to be aware of why women wear it.

“They’re not forced – it’s a choice.”

A further event will also be held on Wednesday next week to launch a think tank aimed at finding ways for Muslims to contribute to the community in the next 10 years.