HUNDREDS of diners came together for a ‘humbling’ feast to celebrate Oxford’s diversity and community spirit.

Between 400 and 500 people enjoyed the Grand Iftar last night, which was hosted by the Oxford Homeless Project at the Asian Cultural Centre.

People all faiths and none were welcome at the sunset meal, alongside members of Oxford's homeless community, to break the fast during the month of Ramadan.

Everyone was invited to bring along a dish to share at the centre, which is located off Cowley Road near Oxford Central Mosque.

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One of the organisers Shabnam Sabir, who was awarded a BEM this year for her services to the homeless, said: "We had an absolutely beautiful time, with people from all communities coming together to break fast with us.

"This year was even bigger than last year but every year it just gets better and better.

"The Oxford Homeless Project would like to thank the students from Oxford Uni Islamic society and Brookes Islamic Society for running the show on the day, giving Tayyaba [Hameed, fellow co-founder of Oxford Homeless Project] and I a much-needed break!"

Asian Image:

Pictured at the Grand Iftar are organisers Shabnam Sabir, left, and Tayyaba Hameed. Picture by Shaista Aziz

The group staged the event in partnership with Oxford University Islamic Society, Oxford Brookes Islamic Society, Big Iftar UK and the Oxford Asian Cultural Association.

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Oxford city councillor Shaista Aziz described the night as a 'stunningly beautiful evening.'

She added: "The Grand Iftar is about the true essence of Ramadan, it’s about compassion, kindness, and caring about our communities.

"It was a wonderful evening showing the diversity of Oxford.

"It was also important to see members of Oxford’s homeless community breaking fast with us.

"I have huge respect and admiration for the team of people who made it such a beautiful and humbling evening."

The celebration has been held since 2015, and among those who attended this year was Oxford East MP Anneliese Dodds.