Patients waiting at Oxford's new casualty department will be lulled into a relaxed state if managers can raise £6,000 for a massive fish tank.

The £10m building, at the John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, will open in 2003 and organisers hope the new 8ft by 3ft aquarium will be the icing on the cake.

The hospital's Christmas raffle is being dedicated to raise cash for the project, designed to spread a calming influence throughout the accident and emergency unit.

Fish are believed to help patients and families through stressful and difficult times as they provide a distraction and diversion.

A&E consultant Dr Rick Pullinger said: "With all the major decisions taken and detailed plans for the clinical areas drawn up, there's time to plan for the less obvious things.

"High on our list is an aquarium as a central feature in the reception area. We know it will be of great benefit as a distraction, and a tranquil contrast to the anxiety associated with injury or sudden illness."

The Oxford Mail has donated a crate of champagne, and Richard Branson has provided two tickets on Virgin Airways, to the raffle.

Raffle tickets can be purchased from Jo James on 01865 222682 or jjames@herald.ox.ac.uk