Stockport's MP and the Mayor of Greater Manchester celebrated Diwali this November at Stockport's first Hindu Temple.

Navendu Mishra MP welcomed Mayor Bev Craig to Shiva Temple in the Heatons - the first temple in the borough area - to join members of the Hindu community in celebrating the festival.

Diwali is a major cultural event for the Hindu, Sikh, and Jain communities, and is India's most important annual holiday.

Known as the Festival of Lights, it is celebrated by millions of people around the world.

It symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. It is a time for prayer, reflection, family gatherings, and celebration.

The MP and Mayor joined worshippers, heard about the temple's role in the community, and celebrated Stockport's diversity and community spirit.

Mr Mishra said: "Shiva Temple holds a special place in our community as the first Hindu temple in the Stockport local authority area.

"It was a pleasure to celebrate Diwali with worshippers and to welcome our Labour Mayor of Greater Manchester, Bev Craig, to the temple.

Download our Nub News App!

- It’s FREE and available now
- Breaking news notifications
- Your Town in Your Pocket

"Our Hindu community makes an important contribution to Stockport, and it was wonderful to join residents in celebrating this important festival. Diwali brings a message of hope, light and togetherness, values that are important to us all."