Red hot chilli poppers

Daredevils are being invited to sweat it out by eating as many chillis as possible in a red hot contest.

Up to 60 people are set to chomp on the scorching peppers, which will include the Dorset Naga, the world's hottest chilli.

The competition is being held by Tex Mex 2 restaurant, on Thistle Street, to raise money for charities Children 1st and Cash for Kids.

Over a two-hour period on Wednesday, participants will have to stuff as many chillis down their throat as they can manage without drinking a drop.

A glass of cold milk will be at each person's side, tempting the weak to crack.

Edinburgh doctor Jill Archbold said: "Eating lots of chillis will obviously make you sweat. At some point the body will start rejecting the chillis and contestants could be sick.

"I'm not aware of any toxins in chillis so they're not dangerous, but if you eat large quantities it will be uncomfortable, your nose will run, your body will sweat and you will reach the point where you physically can't eat any more."

Donald Mavor, left, owner and head chef at Tex Mex 2, said that participants will need to train hard beforehand.

He said: "They are an amazing food and you can build a resistance up over time. They also give you a high if you eat a lot, a bit like the feeling you get when endorphines are released after exercise."

He added: "It's a strict competition and the winner will be the last person standing. Each person will start with jalapenos and get hotter as they go. They'll also have to eat hot chilli sauces."

Mr Mavor said participants and spectators each had to pay a fee of 5, which includes a free margarita or beer and Mexican buffet. All proceeds go to charity.

He said: "The last man or woman standing will be our Chilli Champion and will win a trophy, dinner for two and a supply of our homemade Fat Donny's hot chilli sauce and a bottle of tequila."

The competition begins at 4.30pm on Wednesday.