A RELIGIOUS community which tries to promote unity and equality in everyone held a celebrating to mark its founder's 200th birthday.

The Baha'i community of Loughton took to Murray Hall to honour the birth of Bahuallah, the founder of the Baha'i faith.

The programme started with children singing, followed by an inspiring presentation from Dr Wendy Momen, on the significance of his teachings and their relevance in today's society. Loughton Town Mayor, Councillor Philip Abraham attended the celebrations and said that he found the evening "very informative" and he was very pleased to be there.

He has recently visited the Baha’i House of Worship in India, which is in the shape of a lotus flower.

Deputy Mayor, Councillor Stephen Murray and Councillor Barbara Cohen from the Town Council, also attended the celebrations.