Mayor sees progress made on new Gurdwara

Councillor Paul Bott was present to see the progress being made on the Shri Guru Ravidass Temple in Darlaston.

He also received a framed picture of the prayers said and written by Shri Guru Ravidass Ra Ji for Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the central religious scripture of Sikhism.

Councillor Bott was joined at the temple by Councillors Rose Byrne and Angela Underhill, Enoch Evans Solicitors partner Richard Neea and Vibrant Networks consultant Amrik Singh.

All have played a role in helping the temple to develop since the work began on the site in 2012.

R.K. Mehmi, Founder and Trustee of the temple, gave a presentation to those present about the challenges the temple has faced since the building work began.

He mentioned the mine shaft which had caused an initial issue, the nine break-ins the temple has suffered and the continuing struggle with raising funds to complete the work.

The work has cost near £1million and is due to be completed by August and Mr Mehmi said the completion of the work will mean so much to him.

He said: "It would be the achievement of my life. I've been living in Darlaston for nearly 56 years and I think the completed temple will improve the environment and be the talk of the town.

"The mayor and councillors have said how impressed they are by the building and to have it completed and open for use will be my life achievement."

When the work has been completed, the temple will have 24-hour access, a Langar kitchen and eating area and prayer room.

Mayor of Walsall Paul Bott served on the planning committee when the temple was first submitted for approval and spoke of his pleasure of seeing the temple for the first time.

He said: "I think the temple is fantastic and a credit to the community for the investment they're making into the temple itself.

"Coming inside for the first time, you can see the work that's taking place and it just needs someone to donate more money to finish a great job off."