A FATHER-OF-TWO has set the ball rolling on an aid mission for Iranian earthquake-hit city Bam after being shocked by TV pictures of the disaster.

When Steve Capriati saw images in the news of the terrible earthquake which destroyed the city and killed 30,000 people, his heart went out to those involved.

But instead of sitting back, Steve decided to do something about it.

The 50-year-old was so affected by the images he saw, that he started to plan his own aid appeal, to ship toys out to the children of the city.

And now the lone fundraiser is appealing for help from East Lancashire residents.

Steve, who lives in Livesey Branch Road, Blackburn, said: "As a result of the earthquake a lot of children were left with nothing. Their houses were gone, and their families were gone. A lot of children, when they're facing stress and trauma, like to cuddle a toy. I have two children myself, so I know what it's like for children to suffer."

Bam was levelled in the Boxing Day earthquake, with around 30,000 people feared dead. It is estimated the earthquake destroyed 90 per cent of the city's buildings, and survivors have been sleeping in tents.

The city's skyline was changed forever, with everything from the hospital to ancient monuments destroyed. Now Steve is hoping that donations made by the people of East Lancashire can be shipped out to Iran, through the embassy in London.

He said: "A lot of the adults are so busy doing things, with the relief teams and people stating to clean up the rubble. I just felt the children need to be children, they shouldn't be involved in any of that and need to start reclaiming their lives.

"I have approached the embassy, and they have said they can air-freight it out, and distribute it once it's out there."

Steve's enthusiasm was so infectious that staff at the job centre he attends, on Penny Street, Blackburn, have pitched in to help.

Posters have gone up in the centre, and staff are collecting together blankets and toys in support.

Jobcentre Plus confirmed they were backing the appeal.

A spokesman said: "Charity work is something we do a lot of, particularly in this office. Helping one of our customers like Steve and such a good cause is something that all of the people who work here are very happy to get involved with.

"We are going to start getting things together and all of the staff have now been informed of the appeal."

To donate gifts, which must be new rather than second hand, drop them off at the Blind Society, Railway Road, Blackburn,from 9am-3.30pm on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.

For more information ring Steve on 07717 005051.