TWO religious leaders have condemned the setting off of a CS gas capsule in a Worcester mosque.

Four people were inside the Central Mosque in Tallow Hill when the men set off the capsule last month.

The Rt Rev Dr Peter Selby, Bishop of Worcester, said he was shocked about the incident - and wanted to extend his sympathy to the president of the mosque, Malik Fayaz, and the Muslim community.

"We should all thank God that there were no injuries and that Mr Fayaz and his fellow elders responded in such a calm and forgiving way," he said. And Canon Owain Bell, of the Worcestershire Inter-Faith Forum added: "I was very distressed to learn of the attack on the Tallow Hill Mosque not least because that particular community has pioneered an open and friendly approach to people of other faiths.

"They have opened their doors and welcomed the stranger inside. Many of us have reason to be grateful for the hospitality and kindness we have received."

The four who were inside the mosque at the time suffered from the effects of the substance although none req-uired hospital treatment.

There was no damage to the building and the incident is not believed to be racially aggravated.

Worcester police have confirmed the incident is still being investigated.

One of the five men arrested initially appeared before Worcester magistrates on Tuesday, May 15, and admitted possessing an offensive weapon. He was remanded in custody to appear again on Tuesday, June 5.

The other four were bailed, pending Crown Prosecution Service advice, to return to Worcester police station while enquiries continue.

In two other incidents at the Firefly pub in Lowesmoor and at Wickes, Shrub Hill retail park, three men arrested on Tuesday, May 15 after noxious substances affected members of the public were bailed to return to Worcester police station while enquiries are continuing.

Police are still seeking witnesses to the three incidents or saw anything suspicious at or near the scenes. They can be contacted on 08457 444888.