A landmark building reopens as an Indian restaurant tomorrow under new management.

The rebranded and renamed 'Chilli Bank', in the former bank building on the corner of Woodford Green High Road and Broadmead Road, will swing open its doors for the first time on Saturday evening.

The restaurant - previously called Razza - has been shut for the past six weeks while its new owners have been redecorating and preparing for the grand reopening.

Owner Wazud Ahmed, who has worked in the restaurant trade for 25 years, said he hoped his vision for Chilli Bank would fit in well with the surrounding area.

He said: "I thought Woodford would be a great location to open this business because people here can afford up-market, high-quality food.

"I want to serve the very best and as a result the ingredients are more expensive. The food will not be cheap, but not really expensive either.

"The focus of the food is very much on home cooking. It's very different from British-style Indian good, it's much more authentic and we are also specialising in fish.

"We have a very good chef from India who previously worked at a prestigious five-star Taj brand hotel."

Mr Ahmed, 42, who lives in the Docklands, previously helped found Indian restaurants in Kent, Surrey and Brighton.

He said he was very charity-minded and wanted to help worthy causes in the area, and was keen to meet with staff from Haven House Children's Hospice to discuss fund-raising opportunities.

And on Monday Chilli Bank is holding a special event in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital for children.

Mr Ahmed explained: "We are offering a three-course meal and diners can pay whatever they like - with all of the money going to Great Ormond Street, although there is a minimum donation of ten pounds.

"My friend's daughter is suffering from cancer, and I wanted to help in some way.

"I am very impressed by the good work they do for so many children and I thought if I am in a position to help them raise money I will do it."

Mr Ahmed said his restaurant will also offer a take-away service and he was keen to have a small seated outdoor drinking area in Broadmead Road next to the restaurant.

He has applied for permission from Redbridge Council and is awaiting their response to his proposals.