A YOUNG care worker from Newton Aycliffe will be hoping not to make a big splash when she abseils from Newcastle's Tyne Bridge.

Niki Brown, 17, is on a trainee placement with the Options Disability Initiative at the Pioneering Care Centre in the town. Her abseil on Sunday, May 26, will raise money for the initiative.

Project co-ordinator Graham Barker said: "Niki is our first ever trainee, but she made a great impression. She has all the right skills, understanding and maturity needed for this type of work, and she is making a real difference to people's lives."

Niki left school at 16 without the grades needed for the nurse training she had planned.

Training providers Disc suggested a Life Skills Programme through the Learning and Skills Council County Durham and she was found a placement.

Niki said: "I love it here. I'm determined to give myself a successful career."

She was apprehensive about her abseiling challenge, but said: "Even though I've never abseiled before and am quite nervous, I'm determined to raise money for the project because it does such marvellous work."

Anyone wanting to sponsor Niki and her fellow abseilers can contact the project on (01325) 321234.