BIRMINGHAM – As thousands of Muslims prepare to celebrate `Eid Al-Fitr, Birmingham police announced extra patrols during the `Eid festival, amid fears of rising anti-Muslim bigotry after Brexit vote.

“As the end of Ramadan approaches, we would like to take this opportunity to wish a happy `Eid to all those celebrating,” West Midlands Police posted on Facebook, Birmingham Mail reported on Monday, July 4.

“This is a time to celebrate and we want to remind everyone to be considerate of others, particularly on the night before `Eid.”

The announcement followed complaints last year of anti-social behavior coinciding with the celebrations.

Officers will be working with wardens from Balsall Heath Forum to prevent any problems on the streets.

“Last year we received a small number of complaints around anti-social behavior that spoilt the night for many families who were out to celebrate,” police added.

“Nobody should be made to feel unsafe in their community and we are working with Balsall Heath Forum and other partner agencies to plan our policing response for the night.

“We will have an increased presence on both Ladypool Road and Stratford Road so we can be out and about ensuring that everyone is able to enjoy their evening.

“We’ll also be working with wardens from Balsall Heath Forum and residents who have volunteered their time to patrol the area so people can enjoy the celebrations safely.”

The first day of `Eid Al-Fitr is expected to begin on Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on the moon sighting.

While American Muslim bodies have already announced the beginning of `Eid according to calculations next July 6, others are awaiting the moon sighting.

Meanwhile, the European Council for Fatwa and Research announced the beginning of `Eid according to calculations next July 5.

The three-day festival is one of the two main religious celebrations in Islam, together with `Eid Al-Adha.

After special prayers to mark the day, festivities and merriment start with visits to the homes of friends and relatives.

And while traditionally everyone wears new clothes for `Eid, children look forward to gifts and traditional `ediya (cash).

During `Eid days, families and friends exchange visits to express well wishes and children, wearing new clothes bought especially for `Eid, enjoy going out in parks and open fields.