The Muslim Jewish Forum of Greater Manchester
Established to develop the cultural and social ties between the Muslim and Jewish communities of Greater Manchester

Kosher Chinese food brings Muslims, Jews, and others, together

On Sunday 9 February 2020, Forum members and friends gathered at Pagoda Kosher Chinese restaurant in Prestwich to enjoy their annual kosher meal together.

Twenty people of all faiths and none travelled from as far away as Leigh and Wilmslow to attend the dinner despite the challenging weather conditions caused by Storm Ciara. There was a warm, friendly atmosphere as the diners enjoyed the delicious kosher Chinese food provided by restaurant owner Daniel Clayhills

The Forum's special guest was the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, Mark Adelstone OBE DL, who briefly addressed the diners about his year in office. This was the second Forum event he has attended whilst holding the prestigious role of High Sheriff. Co-Chair Mohammed Amin welcomed the guests at the beginning of the evening and Co-Chair Cllr Heather Fletcher gave a vote of thanks at the end of the evening.

The informal conversations covered a wide range of topics from politics, domestic  and foreign, to weather conditions and transport difficulties! There was a convivial atmosphere throughout the evening

First time attender, Andy Lister, who is Jewish, said "This was a very enjoyable evening. I met some lovely people from diverse backgrounds and found conversation with them very easy and entertaining."

Cllr Rabnawaz Akbar, Executive member for Neighbourhoods on Manchester City Council said:

"The Greater Manchester Muslim & Jewish Forum dinner has become a popular annual event for the group over recent years. This year there was added significance to the venue, Pagoda Chinese Cuisine and Grill in Prestwich, because of the negative impact of the coronavirus outbreak on businesses across the region with any kind of Chinese connection. We were delighted to be joined by Mark Adlestone, High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, to show solidarity with the Chinese diaspora and demonstrate our support for Chinese businesses by enjoying delicious kosher Chinese food and sharing a wonderful evening amongst people of all faiths and beliefs.”

In the group photo below:

1. Cllr Rabnawaz Akhtar is standing one in from the far right, wearing a prominent lapel pin.
2. Mr Adlestone is two places to his right, wearing his one of his insignias of office around his neck.
3. Mohammed Amin is seated to the left of the hijab wearing woman.
4. Cllr Heather Fletcher is seated to Mr Amin’s left.

The Muslim Jewish Forum of Greater Manchester
Established to develop the cultural and social ties between the Muslim and Jewish Communities of Greater Manchester