Press Releases
We Won't Let Outsiders Turn Neighbour Against Neighbour
A far-right protest is planned for Saturday, 16th August, to oppose the building of the South Lakes Islamic Centre. We are deeply concerned that these gatherings are being driven by outsiders seeking to use our town as a stage for their agendas.
Our community knows better. In Dalton and across the South Lakes, we have long lived side by side, shared in one another's joys and sorrows, and worked together for the good of all. That trust is precious, and it must not be traded away for someone else's politics.
We urge everyone to remain calm, act with dignity, and not be drawn into hostility. We reject any attempt to turn neighbour against neighbour.
The South Lakes Islamic Centre exists for the community and within the community. Our work is rooted in building understanding and trust. We urge everyone to speak to one another, to share a cup of tea, to ask questions, and to learn firsthand about those they may not yet know.
Prejudice grows in silence and distance; understanding grows in conversation. The South Lakes is stronger when we talk, listen, and stand together.
The South Lakes Islamic Centre will always stand for unity over division, for dialogue over discord, and for a community that refuses to be a pawn in someone else's game.
Dalton Shows Its True Colours: Community Support Outshines Division
This weekend, the people of Dalton quietly but powerfully demonstrated the values that define our town: unity, respect, and a shared sense of belonging.
While a small protest took place against the South Lakes Islamic Centre, what stood out far more was the warmth and solidarity shown by residents, friends, and well-wishers who turned up, spoke out, and stood alongside their Muslim neighbours.
The overwhelming support from those who live here spoke louder than the noise from a handful of outsiders brought in to stir division.
We're grateful to Cumbria Constabulary, local councillors, and Michelle Scrogham, MP for Barrow and Furness, for making it clear that Dalton will not be dragged into culture wars manufactured far from the Lakes.
The South Lakes Islamic Centre is not a threat to the character of the Lake District, but a reflection of it. It is a place where people from all backgrounds live, work, and thrive together.
In the months ahead, we will continue to roll out initiatives to engage with our neighbours – because our future here is shared, rooted in the South Lakes, and built for the common good.
A Beacon of Unity Not Division
This past weekend's protests were conducted peacefully, with balanced representation from both sides expressing their views. We extend our sincere thanks to the local community, the council, and Cumbria Constabulary.
Let's be clear: the South Lakes Islamic Centre isn't a threat to the Lake District as hard-right media and politicians want all to believe, but a reflection of a modern, diverse Cumbria where British Muslim communities are part of the social and civic fabric.
The headlines and outrage being stirred up are sadly predictable. It's fear dressed up as concern, and it does nothing but divide neighbours who otherwise live, work, and build community side by side.
The South Lakes Islamic Centre project is about service, belonging, and meeting the needs of local residents, many of whom have called this area home for decades.
We are focused on building spaces of hope, inclusion, and community resilience, and we will be rolling out initiatives of engagement with our neighbours and friends, as after all, we are a beacon of unity in the South Lakes, rooted in Cumbria for the common good.