KIND-HEARTED people are raising money to ease the plight of a young Romanian burns victim.

Seven-year-old Mariana suffered serious burns when she was doused in petrol by thugs and set on fire.

Her plight has shocked people who are sending donations into Teesside charity Convoy Aid.

Founder Rod Jones launched an appeal for money after plastic surgeon Charles Viva said he would operate for free on the child, who sustained 85 per cent burns. She was targeted by gang members after her father refused to help in a multi-million pound timber theft.

The charity needs to raise £10,000 to bring Mariana to Britain.

A 77-year-old retired storekeeper, from Marske, has said why he walked into the charity's cafe, in Stockton, and handed Mr Jones a cheque for £1,000. The man, who does not want to be named said: "Why waste money, when you can help someone? It makes you think. Let's hope it is of help."

A pensioner and her family in Redcar have raised £1,000, and a £1,000 cheque has been sent from Workington, Cumbria.

Mr Jones said: "It's an answer to a prayer and I have prayed every night. I had started to get a bit worried, thinking that people didn't care."

He has applied to Middlesbrough Council for permission to raise more money for Mariana by camping out on the top of the Transporter Bridge.