THE tragic death of a Royal Navy steward in the Falklands War has inspired bar staff to raise money to help injured servicemen.

John Stroud was aged just 20 when he was one of 13 sailors killed after HMS Glamorgan was struck by an Argentinian missile during the 1982 conflict.

His son, John-Paul, who was just eight months old when his father died, is now aged 30 and works at the Capitol in Churchgate.

His colleague at the bar, Joanne Biggs, decided to hold the event to raise money for charity Help for Heroes, following the service to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Falklands War, at Dunscar War Memorial, in June.

Maxine Griffiths, licensee of the Capitol, said: “It was Joanne’s idea to organise this event and she’s really dedicated herself to this project.

“She’s a great team member and has time for everyone who comes into the pub.”John-Paul’s mother, Jean Stroud-Mort, has also been lending a hand to support the event.

The 57-year-old, from Bromley Cross , said: “I’m going to be doing a bit of compering on the night to get people to rally round and put money in.

“The Air Force, the Army and the Navy are fighting these wars and conflicts and they are coming back wounded. They are heroes and they deserve to be helped.”

Throughout the afternoon, there will be activities for youngsters, including a children’s entertainer and face painter.

Staff from Hair by Laura, Blackburn Road, Blonde on Blonde, Corporation Street, and WT Hair, Tonge Moor Road, have agreed to come and style customer’s hair in preparation for the evening.

There will be live music at the pub for the first time and a raffle with prizes, including a signed football from the first team at Bolton Wanderers , haircuts by Toni & Guy, Deansgate, a selection of coffee blends from Starbucks and specialist teas from Tea Harbour, Bridge Street.

People can call in beforehand to buy raffle tickets even if they cannot attend on the night.

Maxine added: “I’ve been blown away by the generosity of the local businesses who have donated prizes to help us raise money for Help for Heroes.”

The event takes place from 4pm on Saturday, September 22.