Simon Sobhani hopes to get at least �5 in raffle tickets from each dentist surgery in the UK.

Simon Sobhani will send every dentist surgery in Britain a book of tickets in the hope they can help three-year-old Mohammed Reza, who was badly hurt in a machinery accident.

Mohammad, from Parasar in northern Iran, lost a hand and arm below the elbow when his arms became trapped in a tin roof press.

Mr Sobhani, 41, from Llanidloes, witnessed the horrendous accident in June last year and now aims to raise up to �50,000 to help the youngster.

On returning home he launched the Mohammed Reza Appeal Fund and contacted Queen Mary's Hospital in London and explained his intentions.

'Very generous'

"I started organising coffee mornings and raffles in an attempt to raise money to help Mohammed," said Mr Sobhani.

"In a year we've already raised �7,000, but it's vital we keep the momentum going.

"I witnessed the accident last year while I was in Iran visiting my parents in Parasar. The accident was horrific and I felt so sorry fort he little boy who lost a hand and his other arm below the elbow.

"He was near the machinery which was owned by his parents. He clearly shouldn't have been anywhere near it, but accidents happen and now we have to help Mohammed."

Mr Sobhani said his patients had been 'very generous.'

"I have a sign in my surgery which gives details of the appeal and as a result I've had cheques for �100 from people and others have attended various events I've held to raise money," he added.

"People have been very generous and we've also received help from the Rotary Club and the church in Llanidloes.

People in Llanidloes have been 'very generous'

"Now we want to go that step further and I intend to send every dentist in the UK a book of raffle tickets, at a cost of �5, for a nationwide raffle."

Among the top raffle prizes are �1,500 towards a cruise, a DVD player, a television and a reclining seat - all supplied by local companies or Mr Sobhani's suppliers.

Queen's Mary's Hospital has agreed to treat the boy, but as he lives outside Europe he will have to pay.

A spokesman for Llanidloes Town Council said Mr Sobhani had worked diligently to raise �7,000 in a year.