A 55-YEAR-old charity worker is preparing to become the North-East's answer to David Blaine.

Rod Jones, the founder of Convoy Aid to Romania, plans to stay as long as he can in a tent lashed to the top of the Transporter Bridge, 160ft above the River Tees.

He hopes to raise the £10,000 needed to save the life of a seven-year-old Romanian girl who was doused with petrol and set on fire by Russian gangsters.

Plastic surgeon Charles Viva said he would operate for free on the youngster, who has 85 per cent burns.

However, her condition is deteriorating and thousands of pounds are needed to fly her to Britain and keep her in a private hospital until Dr Viva can operate.

Mr Jones is applying to Middlesbrough Council, which owns the bridge, for permission.

He said: "Once I get up there, I'll be all right, but I will have to climb up blindfolded - I don't like heights."

He is also approaching the Army and climbing shops for help with equipment, while volunteers seek sponsorship.

A council spokesman said: "We look forward to hearing from Mr Jones and considering his ideas.''