THREE leading Tory councillors were today accused of bringing "shame" on Worcester - by trying to levy a £130 charge on a fund-raising event for victims of the US atrocities.

MP Mike Foster has written to city councillors demanding an immediate U-turn and an apology to the event organiser, Evening News wine expert Phillippe Boucheron.

Mr Boucheron asked the council for permission to hold a wine tasting evening, with American wines, in the Guildhall in aid of those who were injured or killed in the terrorist attacks.

The three councillors who considered the request - Tory group leader Robert Rowden, former mayor Mary Drinkwater and Stephen Inman - agreed the event was in aid of a good cause.

But, instead of waiving the fee altogether, they opted to reduce it by just £40 - leaving Mr Boucheron with a £130 fee.

He is now considering whether to go ahead with the event.

Mr Foster, who has taken up the case, said: "It is a disgrace they refuse to let out a room for free for this event.

"In fact, they have added insult to injury by knocking forty quid off the bill. It is disgusting that when people go out of their way to raise funds to help the victims of this catastrophe, these councillors insists the city council takes a cut of the profits.

"If this decision is not reversed, what will our American friends think of us?

"Will Worcester be known as the city which made a buck at the expense of the dead and injured. For our sakes I hope not."

Mr Foster said the stance of the councillors contrasted sharply with the Hereford and Worcester Fire Brigade who have raised tens of thousands of pounds for the US victims.

But Coun Robert Rowden refused to budge.

"There is a small charge for charities, whether it be the blind association, Acorns Children's Hospice or the Royal British Legion," he said.

"Out of this we need to pay staff at the Guildhall, heating and lighting.

"The principle is "charity is charity" and we don't want to be seen supporting one more than another.

"We try to be even handed and if Mike Foster doesn't want us to be, that's his problem."