Tributes have been paid to a 54-year-old man who died following a heart attack in a mosque.

The tragedy unfolded at the Zakariyya Jaame Masjid, Peace Street, Bolton, on Saturday January 23.

Suleman Atcha and his friend were heading into the masjid to perform Zohar prayers which are conducted at 12.40pm.

Mr Atcha, a father of two and taxi-driver had made his way to the mosque to take part in one of the five daily prayers. On entering the building he is said to have felt out of breath. He seated himself in the foyer area to rest but sadly suffered a heart attack and passed away.

Edris Seth, Executive Committee member of the Zakariyya Jaame Mosque, said: “We are deeply saddened to witness one of our fellow worshippers pass away in front of our eyes.

“Mr Atcha was a very charitable member of the community, very humble and always smiling. We as a Masjid and the community pray with his family and friends. Subhanallah (God is perfect).

“It is comforting for all to know that at the time of passing away, he was in the state of ablution (Wudu) and ready to perform his prayers.”

“May Allah swt grant us all a death with ablution and in his house. Ameen”

Imteyaz Ali, Secretary, at Bolton Council of Mosques (Bcom) said: “Mr Atcha was a well respected and pillar of the community and our prayers are with his family at this difficult time.”

The funeral prayers and burial took place on Sunday 24 January.