Sarfraz Malik will be walking from Blackburn to Manchester in memory of those who died in the Bosnian genocide.

Sarfraz who is known as the Cheetham Poet will take part in the 'peace walk’ from Blackburn Cathedral to the Khizra Mosque on Sunday 15 July.

He told us, "Acts of courage in times of war help us to understand how communities may resist regimes that seek to spread fear and division.

"They also sow the seeds of possibility for peace and reconciliation.

"The North West peace walk is in remembrance of the thousands escaping to Tuzla from the murderous genocidal attack upon them in and around Srebrenica. Over eight thousand were slaughtered. Men and boys were chased and murdered by the Serbian Troops.

"Each year thousands take part in the walk between Nezuk (Tuzla) to Potocari (Srebrenica) known as Mars Mira. A distance of around 65 miles covered in three long days.

"We mirror this walk but only covering a third of the distance of 22 miles in a day." Remembering Srebrenica is a British charitable initiative.

"It recognises that we have achieved a lot in terms of building a cohesive society here in the UK, but discrimination, promotion of hatred, extremism, and exclusion persist, and we must play our part, no matter how large or small, to create a better and safer society for all."

Sarfraz will set off at 9am from Blackburn Cathedral preceded by a short prayer offered by the Cannon Rowena Pailing.

A number of people have offered to walk with him and keep him company along small parts of the route.

"Aidan Stonehouse should be commended for this years event and supporting me by providing refreshments and first aid.

"Whilst, I will be wearing my Asics trainers, many of those that fled were in worn torn footwear and clothing. Let us not forget those that suffered in the past. Learn our lessons and avoid the same happening anywhere ever again.

"I shall walk in peace to remember those poor souls that were cut down in the long grass and those in open fields.

"Exhausted, climbing the hills and crossing the passes. Those that were drawn out by deceit and false promise of a peaceful existence. Hoping that we never again witness such terrible atrocities."

"I expect to reach the finishing point, a Khizra Mosque in Cheetham, Manchester at around 3.30 pm. "

Coun Noordad Azíz will also be takíng part.