21-year-old man charged with murder of Rochdale imam Jalal Uddin

Religious leader was believed to be walking home when he was attacked

Rochdale imam was a 'soft spoken, gentle soul' (Manchester Evening News)

A man has been charged with the murder of a religious leader who was attacked on his way home from a mosque in Rochdale.

Jalal Uddin, who suffered a serious head injury, was found by passers-by in a children’s park in South Street on 18 February.

The 64-year-old was taken to hospital but later died of his injuries.

Mohammed Hussain Syeedy, 21, of Ramsay Street, Rochdale, has been charged with murder and conspiracy to commit murder.

He will appear at Bury Magistrates Court on Monday, Greater Manchester Police said.

Following his father’s death, the imam’s son released a statement saying: "Jalal Uddin was a loved and integral part of the community.

“He was a soft spoken, gentle soul who wouldn't hesitate to help those in need.

"He was a simple man, but respected by all for his kind and caring nature".

Mirza Sadiqul Zamal, a close friend and former student of the Imam, started a fundraising page to help his family.

So far £12,709 has been raised, and people have also been using the site to post tributes.

A 17-year-old boy who was also arrested on suspicion of murder is on bail until April 20.