Coronavirus: South Yorkshire mosque services suspended from today

The South Yorkshire Council of Mosques says it took the decision with "a heavy heart" but it was vital to protect its congregation, especially older and vulnerable people.

There are more than 30 mosques and madrassas in Sheffield.

Mohammad Ali, of the council, said: "This is about the country pulling together to flatten this out to the best of our ability.

"We need to take into account that a mass gathering for Friday prayers has the potential to spread the virus. Some of the mosques have up to 200 people attending. We have also suspended all Islamic lessons at the madrassas.

"This is unprecedented and I have never seen this in my lifetime. I understand that older people like the social side of coming to the mosque so this has been a hard decision but we are all in this together."

Catholic churches have also suspended Mass from today. There will be no public worship but churches will remain open so individuals can pray.

Holy water has been removed and people are reminded to keep a social distance and be hygienic if they do go to church.

A letter shared by the Diocese of Hallam says: "We want everyone to understand that in these emergency circumstances, and for as long as they last, the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days is removed."