Pig’s head left outside site of proposed mosque in Barnoldswick

Officers were called to reports of a racially aggravated public order offence in Mosley Street at 2.10pm on Sunday (October 8).

It was reported that a pig’s head had been left outside the former Methodist church building.

Police said they are treating the incident as a potential hate crime and an investigation was ongoing to identify the individual responsible.

Officers confirmed no arrests have been made, but they are carrying out active enquiries including house to house and CCTV checks, as well as visits to local butchers and abattoirs.

Insp Claire Pearson, from the Pendle and Ribble Valley Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “I want to make it clear that we do not tolerate hate of any form and we are taking this incident extremely seriously.

“We have a dedicated team of officers assigned to this case and they are working around the clock to identify those responsible.

“I am sure the residents of Barnoldswick will be equally as appalled by this behaviour and I want to appeal directly to them to contact the police if they have any information or footage which would assist us in our enquiries.”

Police have also stepped up reassurance patrols as a precaution and are asking anyone with information or any concerns to stop an officer and speak to them.

They are also in continued dialogue with their partners, local councillors and faith leaders.

Ibrar Ahmed, from the Barnoldswick Islamic Centre, said: “This incident is not aligned with the spirit of Barnoldswick, where Muslims have been an integral part of the community since the 1960s.

“The Barnoldswick Islamic Centre remains committed to fostering peace and harmony, working alongside everyone in our town to promote understanding.

“The Barnoldswick we know and call home is a place of friendship and respect, and together, we'll ensure it stays that way.”

Anyone with information should call 101 or email [email protected], quoting log number 845 of October 8.