Plans to build the Western Isles’ first mosque have been approved, on the eve of one of the holiest occasions in the Muslim calendar.

The Asian community on Lewis intend to convert a derelict building in Stornoway town centre after Western Isles Council granted planning permission yesterday.

The small mosque will have a prayer room with a meeting room across the hall.

The building was originally a house but was later used as a store for an electrical contractor. The rundown premises have been empty for many years.

A spokesman for the Asian community said: “We are all happy the council approved the mosque before Eid - so more for us to celebrate.”