Bradford's top curry chefs are gearing up to defend the city's Curry Capital of Britain crown.

Last year the city won the title for the first time, having ranked in second place in the annual event since the competition was set up in 2000.

Now chefs and curry fans across the UK are preparing to take part in the first stages of this year's competition.

Organisers Ethnicity are asking customers to log on to their website and vote for their favourite Indian restaurants in Bradford.

The restaurants will then be rated by 13 judges, who will assess the service, atmosphere and, of course, the food.

Added into the mix this year will be the restaurant's links with customers and the community - including their fundraising abilities.

Last year the points between twice-winners Glasgow and Bradford were tied -- with Bradford clinching the winning position because of strong community connections and the £2,300 raised by the four restaurants nominated to represent the city for Action Against Hunger, a charity to supply food to the world's starving.

"Last year's winning teams were tremendous," said organiser Peter Grove.

This year's four nominated eateries will again be expected to wow judges with fundraising and community action alongside the level of service and food.

Each city must also be supported with the submission of facts and figures from the Council.

In 2003 Bradford Council were criticised for a lack of support for the competition and it was suggested this had harmed the city's chances of collecting the top prize.

But last year, the city rose to the challenge with full support from Council chief Margaret Eaton helping the four top-eateries - Nawaab in Bradford's Manor Row, Greengates' Kiplings on Harrogate Road, Shipley's Saltaire Road Aagrah, and Akash on Bradford Road, Cleckheaton - trump their rivals and clinch the top place.

This year the Council will again be backing the city's entry. A Council spokesman said: "We want to hold on to the winning title. This competition puts Bradford on the map."

The 2005 competition will see an extra bit of heat sprinkled into the mix with Leeds entering for the first time.

"Leeds competing for the first time will certainly add a bit of spice," said Mr Grove, who said he was very impressed with Bradford's previous contributions.

"It is the only city to have one winning title and the rest second place, Bradford's performance has been very good," he said.

The initial voting will close on March 9.

l To nominate a curry-house, log onto www.ethnicityshowcase.com.