An annual curry night in aid of charitable projects in eastern Uganda has raised £1,600.

Spotlight on Africa organised the event at The Cinnamon restaurant in Harpenden for around 80 local supporters.

Money raised from the night will go to help communities in Mbale, where many people have been forced to leave their homes after decades of regional conflict. The charity provides refugees with access to clean water, healthcare, education, and job opportunities.

Harpenden Cllr Harry Gilham, who is also the town council representative for SoA, said at the event: “It is most pleasing that Harpenden institutions like Rothamsted Research, our schools, local clubs and everyone who came to the curry night are supporting this fine charity. On behalf of Harpenden Town Council, I continue to wish SoA all the best in their honourable endeavours.”

SoA chairman Andrew Mayo added: “Together we raised enough money to pay the annual salary of a teacher who would educate a class of over 50 students. Evenings like this are vital to us as they provide the necessary funding to continue our work empowering the impoverished communities around Mbale.”

SoA will be hosting a fundraising ball at Sopwell House in St Albans on Friday May 20, which will also celebrate the charity’s 10th anniversary.