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WE have all seen the horrific physical injuries that some of our brave troops have endured when serving their country.

The average casualty rate of an Army battalion in Afghanistan or Iraq can be up to 14 per cent; losing limbs as a result of a roadside bomb or falling victim to a sniper are just two examples. We do not however yet know about the psychological injuries that some soldiers will incur as a result of their time in action.

In addition to what the State is able to provide, in times of need soldiers turn to the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF). It is the soldiers' charity and provides support whether soldiers are serving in the Regular or Territorial Army, or are now veterans or need help for their families.

It is for this reason the Army Benevolent Fund set up its major new fundraising event, the World's Biggest Curry Lunch, based on the long-standing Army tradition of serving curry to their guests.

The premise is simple and fun; the ABF is asking everyone to cook a delicious curry lunch for their friends, family or colleagues in return for a donation, which they then send to the ABF. The Army will also be joining in, in garrisons and theatres across the world. The ABF hopes to raise at least £150,000 from the event.

Big Curry Week is this week and the ABF is encouraging participants not to worry if you can't have your event this week, it's the date that matters and taking part.

The ABF's Current Operations Fund was set up specifically for those who are today risking so much in Afghanistan and Iraq. Regrettably, the demands placed upon the Fund are expected to be high. Our soldiers will live with the physical and psychological consequences of the current conflicts for many years, and the ABF is resolute that when the charity is called upon, it will be fully prepared to offer each and every one of them support.

I hope that local people will join us in helping the ABF and get involved with the World's Biggest Curry Lunch to assist soldiers and their families with a better future when they find themselves in need. For more details about how to get take part in the event and to download a fundraising and recipe pack to cook your own curry lunch, please visit www.worldsbiggestcurrylunch.com or call 0845 241 4831.

Colonel Peter Knox, OBE, Army Benevolent Fund, Regional Director Fundraising, West Midlands If you do take part please let your Advertiser/Messenger know what you are doing and more importantly let us know how much you raise. Let us know by post or e-mail to advertiser@midlands.newsquest.co.uk

10:59am Wednesday 30th April 2008

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