I visited the Darlington Mosque on North Lodge Terrace. It was a privilege to be invited into the Mosque to meet so many people. My thanks to Dr Mohammed Quader who arranged the visit and I enjoyed the lively debate. The Imam was very welcoming and we discussed the Mosque's plans to extend the building. As hundreds of people attend prayers every day, the committee wants to add another floor to the building to create more space. This will be a big project and I wish them every success.

I also held talks with the Sikh Community about their Temple in Louisa Street. They are very keen to modernise the building and provide teaching classes, maybe linking in with Darlington College. I know the council is also talking to the community and I hope we can find a way forward to attract some extra funding. I will do all I can to help of course.