A WEST Devon businesswoman who was caught up in the South Asia tsunami has rallied Plymouth restaurants to raise money for a charity she has set up to help victims of the disaster. Karen Jones of Weir Quay was in Sri Lanka with her husband and daughter when the tidal wave struck on Boxing Day. It was an experience that changed her life and as a result she set up the South Province Sri Lanka Action Appeal. ?Having been there and personally involved in this tragedy I have to do something physical to help rather than just make a donation. ?I saw the terror on the Sri Lankans? faces and it was such a horrible and graphic memory,? she said. ?I?ve never seen people look like that. It was mixed with sorrow for those they had lost and the fear that the tsunami might return and they?d have to live through it again. Their faces looked like how you?d imagine hell to be.? The appeal?s first fundraising event has brought together more than 20 restaurants who have all pledged to help Karen with a Grand Buffet and Champagne Supper at the Royal William Yard on Saturday February 12. Jacques Marchal, Plymouth?s only chef to have been given the coveted Michelin star, has donated his time and culinary skills pledging to help make the evening a success. Monsieur Marchal, who was the chef and owner of the Chez Nous restaurant for 29 years, will prepare and cook the best of west country food which has all been donated. After the meal Michael Newman, an expert from the BBC?s Antiques Roadshow, will hold a charity auction to raise money for the appeal. The all-inclusive tickets are £60 each and are available from Karen on 01822 840861. Cheques should be made payable to South Province Sri Lanka Appeal and sent to Karen Jones, Hewton House, Weir Quay, Tavistock PL20 7BW.