A lorry laden with aid got a rousing send-off from the North-East as it left on a mercy mission to war-torn Kosovo.

Councillors and union officials from Easington District Council were among those waving off the van with its packed cargo of emergency supplies.

The council has again backed the GMB union in its annual venture to bring relief to the troubled country. For months, council workers have been busy collecting bags full of food, blankets, clothes and toiletries.

A number of local companies answered the district authority's appeal for sponsorship for the convoy.

Last year's trip to Kosovo was cancelled at the eleventh hour because of the conflict in Afghanistan and donated supplies were kept in storage until they could be taken on the road this year.

A spokesman for the council said staff were pleased to help and grateful for the assistance from industry.

Sponsors for this year's convoy include: Seaham Town Council, the District of Easington, Newcastle City Council, the City of Sunderland, Derwentside Council, Capital Waste Management, Seaham Harbour Dock Company, Wincanton Distribution, NCC/SC Sports Club, Murton Carnival Committee and Hill Crest Garage at Seaham