The country’s first Islamic pub opened last December in Oldham and is open for non-alcoholic business only. Behind the bar of The Halal Inn there are fizzy drinks and fruit juices, including non-alcoholic spritzers and buck’s fizz for those special occasions. In addition to tea and coffee, a range of Asian snacks is available, while _Islamic’ songs are played over loudspeakers. Pubgoers can play snooker, darts or karam, an Indian board game similar to billiards. Islamic-themed quiz nights have also been organised. Owners Azizur Rahman and business partner Muzahid Khan spotted the potential in the former Westwood Inn which was lying empty on the edge of the town centre. “Muslims are a major consumer group and they need somewhere to relax and socialise just like anybody else,” Mr Khan reportedly said. “But the presence of alcohol means traditional pubs are off-putting to those who want to follow strict Islamic rulings, so this is the perfect place for them to come.http://themuslimweekly.com/newsdetails/fullstoryview.aspx?NewsID=C8BBE62FA420077C68DAE898&MENUID=HOMENEWS&DESCRIPTION=UK%20News
