Charity curry night in Amesbury raises £1,000 for Nepal

The charity curry night was organised by the Amesbury Community Bingo Group and led by Dr Monica Devendran, a Wiltshire councillor and founder of the group, following a call for support after severe flooding in the country.

The event brought together residents, businesses, volunteers, and members of the Nepalese community in a show of solidarity and generosity.

Dr Devendran said: "When I heard about the devastating floods in Nepal and received a call asking for support, I knew we had an opportunity to bring our community together and make a meaningful difference.

Dr Monica Devendran (Image: Dr Monica Devendran)

"The Nepalese community plays an important role in the social and cultural life of Amesbury and the wider Wiltshire community.

"When families are facing hardship, wherever they may be in the world, I believe compassion should inspire us to act."

She praised the team effort behind the event, including core volunteers Jeff Coy and Maureen Swaffield, and described the fundraiser as a reflection of the town’s values.

Dr Devendran said: "Raising £1,000 is not simply about the financial contribution; it represents the kindness, generosity and solidarity of people who genuinely care about others."

Mr Coy, president and finance lead of the bingo group, echoed her sentiments and thanked everyone who contributed.

He said: "Our community has always been generous when it comes to helping others, and this occasion was no exception.

"It was wonderful to see so many people come together for such an important cause."

The funds raised will be donated to Nepal’s Prime Minister’s relief fund to aid communities and families affected by the flooding.

Lieutenant Colonel Bijay Subba thanked the group for their efforts and described the fundraiser as a meaningful gesture of international friendship.

He said: "Compassion has no borders, and this wonderful gesture from the people of Amesbury is a powerful example of that spirit.

"The £1,000 raised will be donated to the Prime Minister's relief fund in Nepal to help support communities and families affected by the devastating floods."

The event also served as a celebration of the close ties between Amesbury’s diverse communities.

Dr Devendran said: "Community leadership is about recognising where help is needed and bringing people together to deliver it.

"We may be a small town, but our capacity for kindness and generosity is extraordinary."

The Amesbury Community Bingo Group brings residents together through charitable fundraising activities, supporting worthwhile causes both locally and beyond.