MOUNTAINEER Alan Hinkes took the plunge from a landmark "peak" in his adopted North-East to highlight a charity challenge.

The hardy Yorkshireman, who has scaled many of the world's highest mountains, was faced with a less daunting descent, having clambered to the top of Newcastle Civic Centre.

He made the return 200ft journey to the ground by abseiling past the statue of Father Tyne on the way down.

Yesterday's stunt was staged to launch The African Triple Challenge 2001, which Mr Hinkes plans to join next summer.

Designed as a major fundraiser for North-East charities, Water Aid and the Butterwick Children's Hospice Appeal, the challenge involves three gruelling phases in the sapping heat of east Africa.

Participants will be challenged to either climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the world's highest free-standing mountain, take part in a trek round the Ngorongoro Crater, featuring a walk through an area known as the Cradle of Mankind, or complete a 250-mile cycle ride between mounts Kenya and Kilimanjaro.

Further information about the challenge is available from either Trevor Newlove, of Butterwick Children's Hospice, on (01642) 624231, or Alistair Baker, regional spokesman for Water Aid, on 0191-383 2222.

Details will also be given by Mr Hinkes at a talk-in event at Darlington Arts Centre, on Sunday, at 7.30pm, when he will also recount some of his mountaineering adventures.

Ticket information is available on (01325) 483271.