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Fundraiser will help to buy boats for victims of Bangladesh cyclone

19/ 4/2008

A FUNDRAISER inspired by Rochdale MP Paul Rowen recent visit to Bangladesh will take place next week at the town hall.

The ‘Gala Evening’ will be held on 24 April in aid of victims of ‘Cyclone Sidr’ which hit Bangladesh in November last year killing over 10000 people and leaving seven million lives devastated.

Whilst in Bangladesh, Paul was told about the ongoing problems that the cyclone had caused. He met with families whose lives are being blighted by their boats being destroyed. A replacement boat will cost just £700 and Paul has teamed up with the Bangladeshi Association Community Project (BACP) to organise the event that will lead to working with the British High Commission in Bangladesh to replace as many boats as possible.

Said Paul: "I hope that as many people can join us at Rochdale Town Hall – tickets are only £10 and include entertainment and a meal. I heard many heart rendering stories on my visit – one of them was the affect that the cyclone had on regular families.

"Time is running out and within a few months the area could again be flooded. Because most of the men lost their boats they have also lost their livelihoods. A new fishing boat costs approximately £700 and supports up to five families – meaning for every £700 raised we will help over 50 people.

"I made a promise to the people affected that we would do some fundraising to help them buy boats. If they can work which they all wanted to they do not need our help as much."

Shaukat Ali, the General Secretary of BACP said: "There are thousands of people in Rochdale who have relatives or know people affected by Cyclone Sidr.

"I am asking people to join us and raise some much needed funds. The evening will be a celebration of the significant contribution that people of Bangladeshi origin make to Rochdale and the whole Town is invited.

"I hope that we can raise as much money as possible so that we can a huge difference to these people’s lives. Rochdale has a deserved reputation as helping those in need and I am sure we can continue this next week."

Anyone who would like to apply for a ticket can call Paul's office on 01706 712 186 or contact Shaukat Ali on 07976 059 405.