AN appeal has been launched to help get emergency supplies to flood-hit villages in Romania.

Teesside-based charity Convoy Aid has had a direct plea from the mayor and priest in the village of Bivolari, following devastating floods in Europe.

While news coverage of water-logged towns and cities has shocked the country an appeal has come to charity organiser Rod Jones.

He said: "With our charity based in Romania, the mayor and priest have contacted us direct to ask for our help.

"Most of the homes there are mud huts and families have been completely washed out."

Mr Jones said a 20-tonne truck in a depot in Stockton was full of emergency supplies, including clothes and mattresses, but the charity has not got the immediate cash to pay for the transportation of the lorry.

He said: "We have the supplies ready, but not the £2,000 to pay to get the truck to Romania.

"We are in a very difficult situation and, being a charity, we want to help. We are appealing to people to donate and help towards the costs, and we will do our part and get the supplies to where they are needed."

Cheques and postal orders may be made payable to Bergen Aid Transport.

Also, anyone who can help with tents, sleeping bags, plastic sheeting and water containers is asked to call Convoy Aid, which will collect the items.

Helpers can contact Mr Jones or his wife, Gabriela, on (01609) 883144 or 07876 077110.