London, Sep 15 (DPA) British Muslim organisations Friday joined in the fierce criticism of remarks made by Pope Benedict XVI about Islam.

Britain's Ramadhan Foundation, a youth organisation, reacted angrily to the comments, comparing the pope unfavourably to his predecessor John Paul II.

In a statement it said: "If the pope wanted to attack Islam and Prophet Mohammed's teachings he could have been brave enough to say it personally without quoting a 14th century Byzantine Christian emperor."

It added that the late Pope John Paul II spent over 25 years building bridges and links with the Muslim community.

"The Ramadhan Foundation is disappointed that the current pope has not followed the example of his predecessor. It is essential in today's world that we link together and encourage a wider understanding of our different faiths, celebrating our religious differences is essential in an ever expanding world."

Mohammed Umar, chairman of the foundation, said: "This attack on Islam and Prophet Mohammed by Pope Benedict is recognition that he has fallen into the trap of the bigots and racists when it comes to judging Islam on the actions of a small number of extreme elements."