Muslims all over the world are currently fasting as it is the holy month of Ramadan, a period when they abstain from food and drink from dawn until sunset. Traditionally the daily fast is completed in the evening with a meal called iftar, which literally stands for 'break fast'.

This was the first time the MWA had organised an iftar, and the event proved a great success, bringing together many people. Invited guests included members from all three main political parties, including Hemel Hempstead MP Mike Penning and the Revered Lawson from St Mary's Vicarage in Apsley.

The President of the MWA, Aftab Nawaz, began proceedings with a short talk on the MWA. He touched upon initiatives such as the new website for the Association, a newsletter to keep the community informed, the MWA's organisation of youth activities including a 'Sports and Fun' day and football tournaments, and the efforts being made to work with other bodies such as the local Police.

Mr Nawaz stressed how the ethos of the MWA was focused on engagement between communities.

Mike Penning said that the best approach for success was to combine the energy and enthusiasm of youth with the experience and wisdom of older generations. He resolved to build on his relations with the Muslim community, specifically the MWA, and pledged to give his attention to some of the issues facing Muslims in Hemel Hempstead such as the current lack of space at the existing mosque.

Mr Penning emphasised the need for all to ensure they were conversant in English, not only to help facilitate their personal lives but as a means to promote better communication amongst people in society.

The event ended with dinner being served and a chance for attendees to interact with each other in a relaxed atmosphere as well as meeting and speaking to the guests and exchanging thoughts with members of the MWA committee.