Spirit of Ramadan shared in Newport community interfaith Iftar celebration

Chief Constable Mark Hobrough joined more than 150 people for the heartwarming event at Rodney Parade on Tuesday 18 March.

More than 150 people shared in the spirit of Ramadan during a heartwarming community interfaith Iftar celebration in Newport.

Chief Constable Mark Hobrough and Superintendent Laura Bartley joined staff from Newport County, Dragons Rugby, Professional Footballers’ Association, and the local community, at Rodney Parade on Tuesday 18 March.

Show Racism the Red Card Wales, a leading anti-racism education charity, organised the event which helped unite people from different faiths and backgrounds, promoting dialogue, unity, and mutual understanding.

Iftar is the fast-breaking evening meal of Muslims during Ramadan and children at Maindee Primary School presented the five pillars of Islam.

Dragons rugby player Ashton Hewitt shared his experiences of growing up in Newport and starting his rugby journey at the city’s Pill Harriers club.

He highlighted the importance of strong leadership, honesty and commitment from organisations in delivering change through inclusion and the power of sport.

During the celebration, Sheykh Wasim Kempson led the prayers, while people were able to pray at the side of the pitch.

As the sun began to set over Newport, people sat down to enjoy a mouthwatering spread of traditional Iftar delicacies to celebrate the unity that Ramadan brings.

Dean Pymble, campaign manager for Show Racism the Red Card Wales, said: “Sport has the unique power of bringing people from different backgrounds together uniting them with a common passion, Show Racism the Red Card has utilised the brand and power of professional sport clubs since it’s inceptions in 1996 to engage and educate people against all forms of racism.

"This year, in partnership with the COSARAF Charitable Foundation and our other delivery partners, we aimed to break barriers, build understanding, and celebrate diversity through our interfaith community Iftar celebrations. “

Gwent Police Chief Constable Mark Hobrough, the UK lead on Hate Crime, said: "Events like this help foster understanding and solidarity between communities, countering divisions and stereotypes.

“At Gwent Police, our mission statement is to become an inclusive, caring, connected organisation providing an outstanding service to our communities.

“We want Newport and Gwent, as a whole, to be a harmonious and welcoming place for people of all religious beliefs.

“We’re proud to be involved in this event because interfaith iftars offer an opportunity for people of different beliefs to come together, share experiences, and build lasting friendships across faiths and cultures.”