From running your own business to helping worshippers gain more knowledge about Islam we catch-up with a wide range of people to see what Ramadhan means to them.

The business woman.

For Amna Siddiqui owner of the Hijab Centre, the month of Ramadhan is one of the busiest times of the year.

Although running a successful business and being a housewife is not easy Amna takes it all in her stride.

“Our business has thankfully grown and we get people from across the UK coming to Blackburn to see the unique designs and colours.

“We open at 11am and close an hour before Iftar (sunset). But during the last ten days of Ramadhan we close only for Iftar and then stay open till late due to the wishes of customers.

“I tend to go home an hour before the fast opens to prepare things.

“I am originally from Saudi Arabia and over there we pray all night and only go to sleep after fajar (sunrise) prayers. Women also go to Taraweeh prayers.

“During Ramadhan we get a lot of young women who are wearing the head scarf for the first time. And we feel it is our duty to explain and educate people to the best of our ability when they come here.

“Many people welcome the fact that we not only sell different types of hijabs but also talk about what it means to wear the hijab.”

The Cabbie.

ALTAF HUSSAIN as been a taxi driver for 25 years: “I tend to work through to Sehri especially at weekends. I know many taxi drivers who after Taraweeh prayers will go straight to work.

“I feel we tend to be in more of a position to explain to non-Muslims what Ramadhan is about. I try my best to do this. And you would be surprised many non-Muslims are very willing to learn.

“Also for many people it is a time to reflect on the year that has passed. I try to teach my children the true meaning of Ramadhan.”

The driving Instructor.

TALAT JABEEN runs Askot School of Motoring: “I get up are Sehri and then stay awake. It is so peaceful at this time, the perfect atmosphere to pray Namaz and Quran.

“I start work at nine or ten depending on my booking but then will try my best to finish for three. It is tiring and I feel that your concentration is something that can get very strained. It is thirsty work so more than food i feel you miss not having a drink.

“Once I get home I do all my praying again and then start work on preparing a feast fit for a king.”

The Health Worker.

Shokat Hamid,43, is a control room assistant with the North West Ambulance Service in Preston: “I have been with the ambulance service for nearly five years.

“I am only one of two Muslims in the department.

“Many people already know what Ramadhan is about but if there are any queries I am more than happy to tell people more about this blessed month.

“I actually see the way my shift is timed as an advantage during Ramdahan. Sometimes I begin at 8am and finish at four and other times I start at 10am and finish at six. Some years ago we would break the fast at the workplace but this year I will be able to go home in time for Iftar.”

The Masjid Imam.

Maullana Ayub Chisti Saab has been the Imam of the Raza Jamea Masjid, Randal St, Blackburn, for over five years: “Of course like many Mosque Imams we are always at hand to answer any Islamic related questions people might have.

"It is important at this time to gain more knowledge of Islam. And we try our very best to relate this to worshippors.

“Of course my routine changes during Ramadhan because the mosque becomes much more of a focal point for the community during this blessed month.”