Boxer's plea for trouble-free Eid

Amir Khan says troublemakers reflect badly on Muslims

Police have enlisted the help of Bolton boxer Amir Khan to urge Muslims to stay safe during Eid celebrations.

Many Muslims in Manchester will make Wilmslow Road in Rusholme the focal point of their festivities on Friday.

Greater Manchester Police want to keep disruption in the area to a minimum, after a group of people from outside the city caused trouble last year.

Olympic medallist Khan said Eid is a time for families, and bad behaviour reflects badly on the Muslim community.

Complaints from residents

"Eid is a special time for Muslims," he said.

"Young people should celebrate Eid in the way it's meant to be celebrated, with our family.

"I would like to discourage the small minority of young people who go to Wilmslow Road causing a nuisance and behaving irresponsibly towards members of the community who live and work on Wilmslow Road."

The police operation follows complaints from residents and businesses in Rusholme.

It is important that the community be allowed to celebrate in peace Greater Manchester Police

Chf Supt Dave Thompson said: "Eid is a very important part of the Muslim calendar.

"We are extremely proud that Rusholme is a focal point for the UK Muslim community at this time and we welcome people visiting Manchester.

"Greater Manchester Police feel it is important that the community be allowed to celebrate in peace, without their celebrations being disrupted by a small number of people who use the festival as an excuse for bad behaviour."

The force say they will stop, search and confiscate vehicles being used in an anti-social manner.

Traffic diversions will be in place and there will be restricted access to Wilmslow Road.

Closed circuit television will be used throughout the area.