Curry fans dug deep to help a Benfleet Indian restaurant swell the coffers of an international charity.

Bosses at the Maharaja Indian restaurant in London Road have been delighted with their customers' donations to the Action Against Hunger charity.

The fundraising started on Sunday and already nearly £200 has been raised for the international charity.

Restaurant owner Siraj Ali said: "People have been fantastic making contributions to this very worthy cause - hopefully their generosity will continue until Saturday, the final day of curry week."

World Curry Week is sponsored by the famous Indian beer Kingfisher and registered restaurants throughout the country are taking part.

As well as raising money, the week is an opportunity to celebrate Britain's favourite food and increase appreciation of the many different styles of Indian cuisine.

Hot stuff -- Siraj Ali with one of his delectable dishes

Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.