RECORD BREAKERS: 35 cadets from Squadron Air Training Corps raised money for worthy causes via curry-inspired Olympic events
RECORD BREAKERS: 35 cadets from Squadron Air Training Corps raised money for worthy causes via curry-inspired Olympic events

As Bradford aims to retain its Curry Capital crown for a sixth consecutive year, the latest Curry Tree Foundation fundraising event has been held in the city this week.

On Thursday 21st July, 35 cadets – from Thornbury’s 2387 Squadron Air Training Corps – came together to compete in a series of Olympic-inspired contests with a tasty twist.

Youngsters took part in curry-themed relay races – using kebabs for batons, shot-putted with onion bahjis and fashioned roti breads for discus throwing.

Cadets collected sponsorship for their efforts, with proceeds going to deserving causes connected with the Curry Tree Trust.

While raising much needed funds for worthy causes, the cadets also successfully broke the record they set last year in a chapatti archery event. 

In 2015, the record was 115 successful shots on target within a 15 minute time frame. This past week, the cadets improved on this score with an extra two successful shots on target within the time frame – a total of 117 shots in 15 minutes.

Commenting on the night’s event, Cllr Sarah Ferriby, portfolio for Environment, Sport and Culture at City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council, said: “The cadets were full of enthusiasm and determined to break the record they set last year in the chapatti archery contest.

“It was certainly a celebration when the two extra shots hit the target within the allocated time frame.”

This year, the format of the Curry Capital competition is changing, with the initial competition deciding the Curry Capitals of England (minus London), Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The regional winners will then go head-to-head – along with London – to compete for the overall winner’s title of Curry Capital of Britain.

Tricia Tillotson, tourism manager at Visit Bradford, believes the city has what it takes to retain the sought-after crown.

She added: “Each year as we continue to build on our previous successes we know we have to strive harder to make our bid bigger and better. 

“While the main event of our bid into this year’s competition is still a top secret, the event last night was a great way to kick off the celebrations, and mark the start of what we’re sure will be a great campaign.”