TWO teenagers will plunge from the Tyne Bridge to raise funds for a disabled youngster.

Gemma Atkinson, 18, and Laura Malone, 17, both Durham County Council employees, will join four friends to abseil from the bridge in a bid to buy an artificial limb for Laura's cousin, Kate Smith.

Kate, 16, from Seaham, was struck down by meningitis in February, and was left with severe scarring, a missing lower left leg and part of a thumb.

Now the six-strong team is hoping to improve her quality of life by raising funds for the best artificial limb available.

Gemma, from Sacriston, and Laura, from Langley Park, are currently trying to persuade their colleagues in the social services department to sponsor them.

Gemma said: "The limb we want to buy isn't available on the NHS and we are hoping as many people as possible will sponsor us.

"I haven't done anything like this before but being terrified out of my wits for a few minutes seems a small price to pay if it means I can bring about a major improvement in the quality of Kate's life."

Laura said: "Kate has shown tremendous courage and with the family's support, has managed to pull through."

The team hopes to raise more than £3,000 from the stunt on May 26 towards the target of £20,000 to pay for the limb and associated costs. Kate's family and friends have already held and are planning more events.

Kate's mother Barbara said: "The response of everyone involved has been fantastic. The family wants to say a big thank you."

Anyone wanting to sponsor the team can call Gemma or Laura on (0191) 3834181 or 3834961, or collect a form from the County Hall help desk or North Road Jewellers in Durham