A CONTINGENT from Keighley is among thousands of people attending one of the UK’s biggest and oldest Muslim conferences.

Around 50 people from the town are heading to the event – Jalsa Salana UK – in Alton, Hampshire.

The conference is held over three days, starting on August 2.

Among the organisers is Keighley man, Adam Walker.

“It’s such a vibrant and spiritual event which brings the best out of people,” he said.

“A 205-acre area of farmland becomes a truly global village for three days, with participants from over 100 countries converging.

“The objective of the event is our social, moral and spiritual reformation and learning about service to God and the rest of mankind.

“We wait for this event in anticipation throughout the year.

“And many of us do not just simply attend. We also volunteer in the build-up to and during the event – be it in the car park or the kitchens or helping with setting-up the big marquees.”

On the final day, a human chain of 35,000-plus people is formed and there is a flag-raising ceremony (pictured).