Millions of Muslims begin Hajj

Around three million Muslims have begun the short trip from Mecca to the tented town of Mina in Saudi Arabia to take part in the Hajj.

After staying in Mina the pilgrims will then head back to Mecca, where they must follow a precise trail of steps and walk around the Kaaba, which is a cube structure in the centre of the Mecca mosque.

The route was performed on the first Hajj by the prophet Mohammed and is one of the five pillars of Islam ? required to be performed by all Muslims once in a lifetime if they are able.

The Foreign Office has issued special advice for all British nationals that have made the trip to Saudi Arabia as fears remain of over-crowding and possible injuries.

Last year 400 pilgrims, including three British nationals, were killed during a stampede. In addition, there has been an increase in pickpocketing and theft in the area.

Around 25,000 British people are expected to make the trip this year.