A group of 40 young people from the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association Stevenage (AMYA) were up early on New Year's Day to tidy streets in Stevenage.

After reciting pre-dawn payers at St Nicholas Pavilion, they took part in a region-wide initiative, picking litter for three hours across a number of roads in St Nicholas, The Oval, and the town centre.

Muzaffar Hayat, president of AMYA Stevenage, said: "New Year's Day offers a splendid chance to kickstart the year positively by giving back to the cherished local communities.

"Our street cleaning endeavours not only enhance aesthetics but also aim to inspire community pride."

The AMYA has 10,000 members across 140 UK branches, and conducts its clean-up campaign every year on New Year's Day. Its members believe that Prophet Muhammad emphasised cleanliness as an integral part of faith.

In 2022, the AMYA raised more than £500,000 for British charities, gave 1.6 million meals to vulnerable people, and donated more than 10 tonnes of food to food banks across the UK. The organisation aims to help young Muslims become better citizens, and serve God and humanity.

The worldwide leader of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Caliph Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, encourages young people to get involved in community service and become productive members of society.

Those interested in participating in future community initiatives by AMYA are invited to email RQ.Hertfordshire@khuddam.co.uk.