A ROMANIAN opera singer is hoping to win a place with a top company.

Mihaela Ionescu, 26, a well-known soprano throughout eastern Europe, hopes to make her name on Britain's top stages.

She has auditioned for the Royal Opera, at London's Covent Garden, and is soon to be heard by directors of Scottish Opera.

Miss Ionescu has also joined forces with the Middlesbrough charity Convoy Aid to produce a CD to help fund its trips to war-ravaged Romania.

The singer plans to perform a recital for Convoy Aid in the region in the new year.

Anyone who is able to offer a venue is asked to contact her on (01642) 359050.