A LEADING Islamic cleric has died of a liver infection, aged 65.

Mohammed Aslam, of St James Road, Blackburn, died on Monday at 11.30pm.

Mr Aslam, known by the honorary title Khawaja Sufi, moved to England in 1963, and worked in factories as well as preaching to Muslims.

He also visited prisons in different towns across the country and offered spiritual teaching to youngsters.

His son-in-law Mohammad Asghar, 44, of Pringle Street, Blackburn, said: "He was a very kind and gentle man and he was always very calm. He never criticised anybody of any religion.

"His teaching method was unique, and he encouraged people to make their own decisions instead of lecturing to them.

"The whole community in Blackburn and people all over the country are in mourning, and the news of his death has been shown on television in Pakistan."

He added: "He has left a big legacy. People will continue his work and his mission will never stop. He has left thousands of followers from countries all over the world including America, Norway, and Saudi Arabia, including English people."

Mr Aslam had arranged a holy march to commemorate the birthday of the holy prophet on Sunday, June 27, at 1.30pm, which will still go ahead as planned.

Approximately 3,500 people were expected to attend the funeral today (Wednesday) at the Amina Hall, Newton Street, Blackburn, at 11am.

Twenty people from Blackburn will be flying out to Pakistan with other mourners from around the country for a ceremony.

He is survived by three sons, Riaz Ahmad, 25, Raza Ahmad, 24, Arshad Mahmood, 43.

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