12:50PM, Wed Jan 23, 2013

Meet The Muslim Snow Patrol Cleaning Up The City

By Nisha Joshi Location: Fenham

Video: Newcastle's Muslim Snow Patrol get to work

The Islamic Diversity Centre (IDC) in Newcastle has called into action its self-titled ‘Muslim Snow Patrol’ to help clear residential roads and drives in Newcastle's West End.

After Newcastle City Council was contacted about the plans, it provided the team with gloves, shovels and grit as well as directing the team to areas most in need.

IDC director Abu Tayeb said: “[Residents] have been really appreciative of the work that we’re doing.

“They’ve been a bit surprised at why loads of bearded men have come and tried to help them clear their drives.

“As Muslims we believe that it is our Islamic duty to look after our neighbours, especially in these very difficult conditions.

“We’re trying to remove some of those preconceptions people have about Islam and Muslims by showing that Muslims actually do good things and are trying to help our neighbours.”

Labour councillor for Wingrove, Nigel Todd added: “The residential streets are more of a problem for [the council] because we just don’t have the money to grit and clear them.

“This group is a tremendous example of what can be done and what can be achieved by everyone doing their bit.

“If every group just does a little bit then together we can do a huge amount.”