THE Muslim community of Chesham enjoyed a march through the streets on Sunday to celebrate the birthday of their prophet Mohammed.

The procession, only the second to be held in Chesham, marched from the Mosque in Bellingdon Road down to the war memorial in the middle of town where speeches and prayers were made at midday.

Wahid Mahmood, chief organiser, said: "I am delighted with today. This procession has shown the unity we have in the town.

"There is a great family atmosphere."

The march kicks off a month of celebrations for Muslims across the world as they celebrate their biggest calendar event of the year.

Nadeem Zain, 25, from Hill Top, Chesham, said the day was just as important for the young members of the community as its elders.

He said: "We have been missing out on this all our lives in Chesham until last year. It is very important for us."

Cheryl Gillan (Con), who is seeking re-election in Chesham and Amersham, was invited to make a brief speech on the day.

She said afterwards: "This is my first march and it is great to see everyone enjoying the day. This really shows we are one community as we celebrate the differences. It has been lovely to see Muslims and non-Muslims enjoying the celebrations."

After the town centre gathering the procession travelled back up to the mosque for further prayers and food until 4pm.

Police hailed the day a success and said they had not expected any trouble.

Sergeant Steve Buckland, of Chesham police, said: "We were aware of the troubles in Oldham but we had no information to suggest there would be any problems today so we policed it as normal."