Fundraiser aims to move Iqra Academy step closer to reality

BUSINESSMEN behind a drive to convert part of a former private school into a Muslim community centre and education facility are hosting a fundraising dinner this Sunday to boost their bid.

The project, supported by the Blackhall Mosque, would see the former St Margaret's Building in Southside renamed as the Iqra Academy and would include a private nursery, fitness centre, educational classes and workshops, a youth centre, an Islamic awareness bureau, a conference and events centre and a public cafe.

The fundraiser is being held at the Royal Highland Centre from 6pm on Sunday. It is hoped the funds will help finalise a bid for the site, with the developers saying the centre could be opened by June this year.

An auction featuring a raft of exclusive lots - including boxing gloves signed by Amir Khan, a signed Manchester United shirt and cricket bat with autographs from the Pakistan cricket team - will all go under the hammer.

Tickets cost 20 (concessions 12) and are available from Greenprint on St Leonard's Street.