Prime Minister Tony Blair has praised the UK Muslim community's contribution to public life, in the first ever Eid al-Fitr greeting from the British Government.

In a message to mark Saturday's festival at the end of Ramadan, Islam's traditional 30-day fast, Mr Blair said he looked forward to seeing even greater participation from Britain's 2.5 million Muslims in the future.

In an open letter to the Muslim Council of Britain, he said: "I would like to offer the British Muslim community my sincere best wishes on the happy occassion of Eid al-Fitr.

"Eid is a day of joy and giving thanks. It is a great occasion for the Muslim community and there will be many celebrations taking place around the UK following the Holy month of Ramadan.

Message 'appreciated'

"The contribution made by the Muslim community to our lives is greatly appreciated by the government.

"I welcome your increased participation in areas of public life over the last few years, and look forward to seeing this increase in the future.

"I hope you will all have a very special day."

Iqbal Sacranie, secretary general of the Muslim Council of Great Britain, said the community appreciated the message.

He said: "We appreciate the prime minister's recognition of the Muslim contribution to national life."

Eid al-Fitr is one of the most important Islamic celebrations, along with the the Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca.

It marks the end of Ramadan, which is traditionally practised by Muslims who have reached the age of puberty, and is intended to instil self-discipline and an awareness of poverty and hunger in the world.