LOCAL people are rallying round to support the victims of the Indian earthquake.

Collection tins around the district are filling up and various fund-raising schemes have been organised to boost the coffers of the Indian Earthquake Appeal.

Students at Lancaster University cooked a big vat of curry on Monday which was served to hungry passers by in return for donations.

And at the full council meeting on Wednesday, the Deputy Mayor, Cllr Sheila Denwood called on fellow councillors to support the appeal and a collection was made.

The local Islamic Society are co-ordinating the relief work of the area's Asian community, many of whom have relatives in Gujarat. Councillors were informed that the Society has opened a special bank account so that they can take money across to India to buy much-needed aid.

Cllr Sheila Denwood explained: "The people who have managed to survive this earthquake are now left homeless and with little or no food. They also face the constant threat of disease. Even the smallest donation can provide vital supplies for survivors."

In a further move to support fundraising efforts the council has approved an request to allow the proprietors of the Sultan and Moghuls restaurants to give out samples of Indian food in Lancaster's Market Square

this Saturday, February 10, in return for donations to the appeal.