Come and have tea with us, says Tilford's Islamabad community
The Ahmadiyya Muslim community in Tilford is opening its doors to curious neighbours after viral social media speculation about their site.
A quiet corner of Tilford has found itself at the centre of an unexpected internet storm. Islamabad, a community complex nestled near Waverley Abbey, has become the subject of viral videos viewed more than 100,000 times, with some online commentators making sinister assumptions about the site.
But the reality is far more straightforward. The site, which has been home to the Ahmadiyya Muslim community since 1985 when they purchased a former boarding school, is simply what it appears to be: a place of worship, community gathering and shared activities.
A place of worship and community
The Mubarak Mosque, built as a purpose-designed addition to the site alongside a multi-purpose hall, serves as the heart of Islamabad. But there's far more happening here than religious services alone.
Imam Mansoor Clarke explained the community's values: "What has always mattered to us at The Mubarak Mosque is that we are not simply based in Tilford – we are part of Tilford. This is our home too."
Over decades, generations of Ahmadis have woven themselves into local life, building relationships with residents, schools, churches, charities and community organisations. The community holds regular events, including an annual cricket match with Tilford Cricket Club, and welcomes tours and visitors throughout the week.
Understanding the security
One detail that has sparked online speculation is the site's security measures – the manned gates and high fences that surround the complex. Rather than indicating something sinister, Imam Mansoor says these precautions exist for entirely practical reasons.
"The security is not there because we want to shut people out – quite the opposite," he explained. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has experienced persecution and threats in various parts of the world, and the measures help protect worshippers, families and visitors while maintaining a safe, family-friendly space.
An open invitation
Far from being secretive, the community actively invites schools, neighbours, journalists, police and members of the public to visit. Imam Mansoor's message is simple and warm: "Just come round for a cuppa and we can give you a tour of the site."
While disappointed by assumptions made online, Imam Mansoor has found the situation instructive. "We are not afraid of conversation. In fact, we believe conversation is one of the most powerful ways of overcoming misunderstanding."
For anyone curious about Islamabad, the invitation stands. No need to speculate from a viral clip or social media comment – come through the front door, ask difficult questions if you want, and discover the genuine community that's been quietly doing good work in Tilford for four decades.