their General Election constituency campaigns, a would-be MP said yesterday.

Warwick East candidate Dale Butler said that all 40 Progressive Labour Party contestants had been urged to come up with $10,000 each to fill their election warchests.

And Mr. Butler has opted to throw a curry and fishcake May Day party at his Paget home in a bid to drum up financial backing.

He said: "Every candidate is attempting to raise this kind of money. Each person was encouraged to do what they wanted.

"Others might have their own families sponsor them, others have their own businesses.

"I don't own a business and we were all encouraged to be as creative as we could be.'' Neither PLP leader Jennifer Smith or party spokesman Michael Scott could be contacted for comment on the fund-raising drive yesterday.

Mr. Butler -- who will stand down from his Northlands Primary School job to fight the election because of legal restrictions on teachers in politics -- announced his warchest campaign in a flyer addressed to "my friends and relatives.'' And he promised curry and fishcakes -- in a bid to reach supporters' hearts -- and wallets -- through their stomachs. The letter added that if supporters cannot make the event, they can show their backing by sending cheques to a Warwick PO Box.

The flyer added: "Book your seat now. Passengers are asked to make a minimum contribution of $20.

"To book a suite, please be more generous. To buy the ship, please open your cheque book wide.'' Mr. Butler said: "It's a legitimate letter and request given to friends and family in light of their support for me.

"It was only sent out to my friends and relatives -- you won't see a general announcement about this.'' He explained: "I'm known for my cooking -- I know what my friends like and this is a fun way to do it.'' Head teacher Mr. Butler explained he will have to sever his ties with his Northlands Primary School from nomination day.

He added: "I will have to take unpaid leave of absence until after the election -- without pay.

"If you lose, you come back to your position. If you win, you resign your job. It's a big sacrifice.'' Mr. Butler is set to team up with Shadow Labour and Home Affairs Minister Alex Scott in Warwick East.

The seat -- together with neighbouring Warwick West -- is seen by both parties as one of the key battles crucial to their victory chances.

Warwick East is currently shared between Mr. Scott and United Bermuda Party Environment Minister Irving Pearman.