THE modern face of mosque management has seen developments as diverse as anti-drugs campaigns and website communication over the last year.

The Lancashire Council of Mosques, an umbrella body with 53 affiliated mosques all over East Lancashire, Preston and Blackpool, is celebrating over a decade of good work in its annual report.

The past year has brought a range of new initiatives and enhancements for the Muslim communities all over the area.

The technological revolution has ensured that the LCM now has an informative website at http://www.lancashiremosques.org.uk.

And drugs misuse has been highlighted at a special seminar followed up by information leaflets and drugs awareness packages. The LCM has also worked extensively with Blackburn with Darwen Council for the introduction of Halal meal options in schools and guidance for Ramadhan as well as arrangements for Muslim burials.

Chairman of LCM Mr Maulana Sidat said: "Umbrella bodies like LCM have a unique, yet difficult role to play.

"On the one hand each of the 53 affiliated mosques are independent and self-governing and yet their sheer number makes it unlikely that individual voices will be heard.

"We therefore have the challenging task of uniting diverse and independent bodies onto a common agenda."

In the report Mr Sidat also pays tribute to Lord Adam Patel, an ex-honorary president and an instrumental figure in the establishment of the LCM.

Mr Sidat added: "A decade of sustaining 80% of mosques in the fold is a testament to the diplomacy and understanding of all who have participated in the LCM vision."