Hundreds of young Muslims invite people of all faiths to join them tonight as they pray for NHS and keyworkers heroes in Milton Keynes

The nationwide prayer session, which comes just just before Ramadan starts, is in recognition of the NHS, fire brigade, police, council and voluntary workers on the frontline against Covid-19.

It is organised by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA), the UK’s largest Muslim youth group.

A spokesman said: "As billions of Muslims worldwide prepare for the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, more than 6,000 young British Muslims will take a moment of pause this Thursday to pray for and show their gratitude."

The young Muslims are hoping the public at large will join them at 7pm by putting their hands together to pray and share messages of support using the hashtag #PrayForHeroes.

Over the past month, AMYA has been supporting those on the front line and vulnerable members of the public through a number of campaigns. These include ssisting 600 NHS staff with food packages and PPE supplies, supplying 2,698 households with food parcels and medicine, and establishing 25 foodbanks across the UK

Overseeing the relief efforts is Dr. Anas Rana, who said: ‘‘In addition to helping thousands of households, AMYA has had the opportunity to now support 20 local councils, 23 charities and numerous food banks in addition to the ones we run.

‘‘To streamline the help we can offer, we set up a hotline and email for those in need of help to reach us directly, which are: 0333 880 6619 or [email protected].’’

Imam Abdul Quddus Arif, National AMYA President said: ‘‘In these tough times, many may feel insecure and afraid, but our message to fellow Brits is one of solidarity, unity and security; our message is that we are there for you and if you need us, you need only call and we will respond.

‘‘As Muslims, love for our nation is a part of our faith and we also believe that being grateful is a duty upon all Muslims.’’