AID workers gearing up for a mercy dash to help East European orphans are appealing for gifts of essential items.

A storage area in Willington is already packed to the rafters with boxes of clothes, toys, cutlery, stationery and toiletries, ready for the Humanitarian Aid to Lithuanian Orphanages (Halo) group to transport to Eastern Europe next month.

Two vans will make the trip to orphanages in Poland, Lithuania and Romania on October 25, with a team that includes five nurses or former nurses and a member of the Territorial Army.

Alan Burnsville, from the charity said: "We have in the past taken a lot of basic aid such as clothing, toiletries, toys and bedding. There is still a need for these items. However, they are trying to expand the care they give to the needy children by encouraging self-sufficiency, independence and self-esteem."

To help the orphanages do this, Halo is collecting tents, sleeping bags, waterproof clothing and walking boots so children can take part in outdoor activities.

The charity also wants tennis and badminton rackets, outdoor games kits and other sports gear. Industrial kitchen equipment, such as pans and microwaves, are also needed.

Treasurer Alf Marley, from Bishop Auckland, said the £2,000 cost of transporting the goods had almost been met by local businesses, pub fund-raising events and individual donations, and the charity had received a discount for the ferry trip to Europe.

He said: "There are no administration costs going on this whatsoever. The lads are taking holidays off work to drive out there and have even bought their own international driving permits, so the money is going straight to the children. We couldn't have done it without all the help we have received.

"There are people like Frank and Freda Bradley, from Bishop Auckland, who have been working quietly behind the scenes for years and years.

"Mrs Bradley checks to see if any buttons are missing from donated clothes and launders and packs them impeccably so everything is fresh. They are real stars."

Anyone who would like to make a donation can contact Mr Marley on (01388) 604888.