AN ME sufferer has helped organise a sponsored abseil to coincide with a week to raise awareness about the condition.

Joanna Hainsworth, of Newcastle, has arranged the event at the Tyne Bridge, on Sunday.

She said: "We have already had about 70 people come forward - 20 of whom are my friends and family members. And there are still places available."

Among those taking part is the Reverend Jim O'Keefe, 58, whose sister suffers from ME, or chronic fatigue syndrome.

John Mullett, 77, of Benwell, Newcastle, said he had decided to do the abseil as his 15-year-old grandson had the condition.

He said: "It is sad to see the way he has gone down. He was fit and athletic, now he can hardly walk 100 yards."

The climbers will also be joined by Jim Purcell, 85, who has just completed the London Marathon - even though he has two implanted knees.

He said: "I keep fit. I compete in the Great North Walk and the Great North Run, which I completed for the 20th time last year. I do a lot of charity work."

Ms Hainsworth organised the event with ME North-East's young people's development worker, Sheila Carruthers. To take part, contact ME North-East on 0191-389 2222.