Extra security for Black Country mosques after Birmingham attacks

Windows were smashed by vandals armed with sledgehammers as five mosques were targeted in a night of attacks in Birmingham.

It comes just days after at least 50 people were killed by a gunman in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Interactive map of the mosques attacked:

The head of mosques in Walsall, Mohammed Arif, said there was "concern" among Muslims and that mosques were looking at increasing security.

He said: "There is a concern. Some mosques have requested security officers and they have been provided. Other mosques will be using their own volunteers to keep and eye on events.

"It is very disturbing that mosques have to take these steps but we are in a time where right-wing extremism is high.

"It is absolutely unacceptable in this day and age that people are attacking places of worship, particularly a mosque without understanding the role of a mosque. They are there to allow people to practice their religion in peace."

West Midlands Mayor Andy Street has condemned the attacks Handsworth Wood, Erdington, Aston and Perry Barr overnight into Thursday. Police believe the incidents are linked and are working with the Counter-Terrorism Unit.

Mr Street said: "I am appalled to hear of the attacks on mosques in Birmingham today. Nobody should feel intimidated to practise their faith, and given the attacks in Christchurch last week, it is even more shocking that extremists can target mosques at this sensitive time.

"I know the police are working hard to find out what happened and I hope the people responsible have the full weight of the law brought down on them for this despicable vandalism.

Labour deputy leader and MP for West Bromwich East Tom Watson said: "I’m deeply saddened and disturbed by the attacks that have taken place on mosques across Birmingham in the early hours of this morning. Mosques are places of worship where people should feel safe and I’m appalled that they’ve been targeted in this way.

"I stand in complete solidarity with the British Muslim community against the growing tide of Islamophobia we are facing in this country."

West Midlands Police chief constable Dave Thompson said: "At difficult times like this, it is incredibly important that everyone unites against those who seek to create discord, uncertainty and fear in our communities.”