A MOSQUE in Westcliff has become the first in the UK to introduce a new alcohol-free hand sanitiser for worshippers.

Southend Mosque on West Road, Westcliff said the new hand sanitiser called INVIRTU will help keep its worshippers safe and comfortable with practicing and praying at the venue.

The large majority of Muslims do not consume alcohol as it is considered sinful.

Muslims abstain from alcohol because the Prophet Muhammad spoke against it.

The mosque has previously used alcohol hand sanitiser, but Imam Iftikhar Ul Haq, who runs the mosque, says the new product will make worshippers much more at ease.

He said: “We are very encouraged that members of our Muslim community have a choice of alcohol-free hand sanitiser.

“Although we can use alcohol sanitiser and still keep in line with our religious teachings, this is much more preferable and will make people feel so much more comfortable.”

Mohammed Abbasi, co-chair of the Association of British Muslims, the biggest muslim association in the country, also welcomed the new product.

He said: “What a fantastic initiative giving more choice for people.”