FOOD lovers came from miles around to sample some tasty treats on Friday as an Eid food fair was held to mark the end of Ramadan and to raise cash for charity.

The event, which took place at Broadgreen Community Centre in Gladstone Street, saw between 200 and 300 people come together in jovial spirits to enjoy some top notch grub.

And a huge show of generosity meant that more than £1,600 was raised for UK-based international aid charity Ummah Welfare Trust.

Organiser Rahima Malik, 24, of Swindon Muslim Sisters, said: “The event went really well. The kebabs sold out within 20 minutes or so, but luckily we had enough stuff to keep us going.

“The desserts were equally as popular, with the rice pudding selling out in half an hour. People even wanted to take things home for those who couldn’t make it.”

There were samples of food on offer from all over the world and a number of famous names in Swindon – from Fratello’s to the Greek Olive – donated vouchers for raffle prizes.

Rahima said: “It was really nice to see the whole community come together. It’s really important to build these sorts of bridges and celebrate together, especially with everything that’s going on at the moment.

“Our aim was to bring something a little bit different into Swindon and to improve community cohesion. And it was great to see everyone talking and mingling together.”

Rahima was excited to announce that there would likely be more fundraising events lined up during the year.