Two events organised by staff and students at Bristol University to raise money for victims of the Asian Tsunami disaster are taking place this Saturday [January 29]. 

Up to 120 people will be taking part in the first event, a “crazy badminton” tournament, to be held in the University’s Centre for Sport, Exercise and Health, Tyndall Avenue, Bristol.

The event will be no ordinary badminton tournament, with the afternoon divided into two halves.  The first half is a fun activity-based event, with skill not guaranteeing a prize.  The second half is a doubles knockout tournament.

The minimum entry fee of £3 per person, all of which will go the Tsunami appeal, is payable on the day.  The event is open to all members of the University, as well as guests.  In addition, The River at the Waterfront will be collecting all weekend to add to the badminton club’s contribution.

The second fundraising event, a ball, in support of the work of the Disasters Emergency Committee, will take place in the evening at the British Empire & Commonwealth Museum.

Roshan Nilaweera, one of the organisers of the ball, said: “The Asian Tsunami disaster has, unlike anything before it, tested the will of the international community and its resolve to come together in this desperate time of need.  The students at Bristol have mobilised to mirror this combined resolve.  By banding together, not only can our support be shown on a grander scale but also the aid we can raise is increased significantly.

“Having been inspired by the World’s response, we, in turn, hope to inspire others by our efforts and actions.”

The ball starts at 8 pm, with music, a casino and a bar.  Tickets, priced at £10 with all profits going towards the Tsunami Appeal, are available from the Union shops, Queen’s Road and Stoke Bishop; The Refectory, Woodland Road and the RAG Office, 3rd floor, Students’ Union, Queen’s Road.