NEWS of Upton-upon-Severn's water rescue service being refused Lottery money has prompted an Indian couple to organise a Bollywood style fund-raising event.

Jay and Nick Jethwa, who run Tiffins, an Indian takeaway in Bristol, said they felt "sore" when they read that the Severn Area Rescue Service had failed to get Lottery money because they did not employ or save enough people from ethnic minorities.

Sitars

Lottery distributors have since denied the accusation, but Mr and Mrs Jethwa have received enthusiastic support from Bristol people.

Bristol's Temple fire station has offered its gym for Sunday's event, which will include an Indian meal for 100 people, with music, dancing and entertainment.

"Somerfield is giving soft drinks and some of our suppliers have offered free wine, beer and raw ingredients," said Mrs Jethwa.

"We will cook the food and some of our friends and customers are supplying the entertainment."

The event, from 1pm to 4pm, will include guitar, sitar, harmonica and tabla players, a singer, dancers, a five-piece band and a magician.

Tickets are £10 each and customers will be asked to give as much as they can afford for their drinks.

Dave Walker, chairman of Upton's river rescue unit, said some of the crew would be there with a boat and the vehicle they need to replace.

"Jay and Nick are a really fantastic couple. It's marvellous what they are doing for us," he said.