THE 40th Fiji Bitter Marist 7s which kicks off today will also set aside some of its funds for victims of the February Tropical Cyclone Winston.

Marist Rugby Club president Lawrence Tikaram confirmed this yesterday saying they would discus how this could be articulated and how much they would give to the Prime Minister’s cyclone appeal from funds raised from the tournament.

“The Fiji Bitter Marist 7s organising committee have decided that during the course of the next two days we will also have the Cyclone Winston Appeal.

“This is to show our appreciation and support to the victims who were deeply affected by Cyclone Winston,” Tikaram said.

He added “hopefully we’re also looking at getting people to come in large numbers to support this appeal, so it’s not only from the Marist Rugby Club but from the patrons, spectators and the fans of the Fiji Bitter Marist 7s that will be able to come and join us in the Fiji Bitter Marist Appeal.”

Tikaram said the effects of TC Winston would need a lot of funds to rebuild and the project would not be a one-off.

“The effect of Cyclone Winston is in lots of stages and more and more money will be required to get us back on our feet.

“This will probably be given direct to the Prime Ministers relief fund because it’s more co-ordinated and it’s also channelled to the right people.”