Union flags unfurled outside a controversial mosque being built on the edge of the Lake District were put there by the Islamic Centre itself as 'a symbol of our shared belonging', it emerged today.
Amid a campaign to raise flags around Britain's streets which swept the nation this summer, Union flags have been hung on the side of South Lakes Islamic Centre.
In response, a video was posted to Facebook congratulating whoever 'did this to the mosque', with hundreds of people replying with anti-Muslim sentiment.
However the Islamic centre itself has now come forward to say its members put the flags up themselves as 'a symbol of our shared belonging and pride in being part of Cumbria and Great Britain'.
'Our centre is dedicated to building bridges, fostering friendship, and creating a welcoming home for everyone,' it said in a statement.
