Keighley’s town mayor has apologised after images of him taking part in a pride flag-raising ceremony emerged online.

Councillor Mohammed Nazam was seen taking part in the annual ceremony on Friday at Keighley’s Town Hall Square.

However, he “wholeheartedly” apologised later for being present at the event by posting on a Facebook page called Keighley Pakistanis.

Since the post went live, he has been at the receiving end of a lot of criticism by many who have called for him to stand down as the mayor.

Councillor Nazam, who also represents Keighley Central ward on Bradford Council, wrote in his post: “I wholeheartedly apologise for my participation in the flag-raising ceremony, as it contradicts my personal religious beliefs, as many of you are aware.

“I want to emphasise that I have also personally repented for this error and reflected deeply on the consequences of my actions. Looking back, I realise that I should have respectfully declined the request at the time.

“While I’m unwavering in my commitment to uphold my deep-rooted religious beliefs as a faithful Muslim, I want to emphasise that I actively support and promote tolerance for individuals of all faiths, creeds and colours, as my faith and the law of the land requires me to do.

“It is my hope that the people who have placed their trust in me within our community can find it in their hearts to forgive me for this lapse in judgment.

“I understand the disappointment and hurt my actions may have caused, and I am truly sorry for any distress or confusion I have contributed to.

“My aim has always been to represent the best interests of the people of Keighley Central ward and residents of wider Keighley, and I hope my future actions will demonstrate my commitment to serving our community with fairness and inclusivity.”

Keighley MP Robbie Moore, who was also a part of the ceremony, has said that the mayor needs to “apologise and consider his position”.

He said, “I was exceptionally proud to join the Keighley Pride team for the raising of the flag in Keighley’s Town Hall Square.

“Everyone should be free to love who they choose and be who they are. Love is Love.

“I’ve seen comments made by Keighley’s town mayor, Cllr Mohammed Nazam, stating that he feels the need to apologise for his part in the flag-raising ceremony and the need for him to ‘personally repent for his error’ because of religious beliefs.

“I disagree and reject the mayor’s comments.

“I am proud we live in a country where people can be who they want to be and are free to choose who they love.

“The role of the town mayor is to represent everyone within the community, and therefore it was deeply disheartening to read the mayor’s statement.

“The mayor needs to apologise and consider his position.

“We have a fantastic community across Keighley which I will always stand up for. As your Member of Parliament I will ensure everyone is represented.”

Trustee of Out in the Valley LGBTQ group, Helen Hallam, said she was “bewildered” after reading Councillor Nazam’s comments.

She added, “Mr mayor, we live in a secular society and have a diverse community. If this is not to your liking, why accept the honour of being town mayor? In my humble opinion you should resign forthwith.

“Our town has worked hard to achieve an integrated community.

“In Keighley we have a number of gay and lesbian people of Muslim heritage and the situation is never easy for them. The mayor’s apology is not the most helpful action to heal the abuse they suffer.”