A mosque has donated more than £12,000 to several “deserving” causes this year - both on a local and national scale.

The South Woodford Muslim Community Centre, in Mulberry Way, South Woodford, raised £12,100, donating sums of £1,000 to organisations such as Haven House Children’s Hospice, in High Road, Woodford Green, the Redbridge Assessment Centre, in York Road, Ilford, and Snaresbrook Art Project For Adults With Learning Difficulties, in Hollybush Hill, Snaresbrook, among others.

International charities have also benefitted from the mosque’s efforts.

Qaiser Malik, secretary of the Qur’ani Murkuz (QM) Trust, which runs the mosque, believes the borough’s Muslim community is “fully aware” of the needs of those less fortunate.

He said: “It has been one of our most philanthropic years yet.

“This has been our usual activity every year. We are part of the local community and we should be aware of the needs of others – they should be the first port of call.”

Mr Malik dismissed claims the QM Trust were funding charitable causes in an attempt to enhance its standing with borough residents who have fought against the mosque’s ongoing redevelopment plans.

“Islam teaches us charity is about pleasing God Almighty – not humans,” he said.

“We have been here for 20 years and we have been constantly doing charity – but we have not been blowing our own trumpet.

“I just thought this year we should let people know what are activities we have been doing.”

The South Muslim Community Centre has also been liaising on a regular basis with the Cardinal Heenan Centre, in High Road, Ilford, to supply dry rations on a monthly basis.

Volunteers have also been providing and serving three course hot meals to the residents of Redbridge Assessment Centre.

The South Woodford Muslim Community Centre – connected with the mosque – also organised its second street cleaning campaign this year.