A Romanian orphan still faces deportation from the UK despite a job offer and generous pledges of financial help.

The offers and goodwill messages have poured in from across Sussex for Vasile Onica, 22, since his plight was highlighted in The Argus.

He was offered a full-time job which he started on Monday.

His foster family thought it meant Vasile, who was rescued from a squalid Romanian orphanage five years ago, could stay in the country.

But within hours, hopes of extending his visa were dashed.

His foster father, Dr Stuart Newton, was told a work visa could only be obtained if he had a degree, an HND or three years' work experience.

Now Vasile's only way to stop deportation within three weeks is to secure funding to attend university. He has received offers from four universities but cannot afford the £8,000-a-year tuition fees which are required.

Dr Newton, from Horsham, said: "I would like to thank The Argus for its help and also all the generous individuals who have called us with messages of support.

"The phone has not stopped ringing. People called to say what a delightful young fellow he seemed.

"It meant so much to Vasile and the rest of the family."

Six people offered jobs to Vasile, who is disabled in one leg because of polio.

The most promising was from Yes Car Credit, based in Horsham, where Vasile has worked part-time.

Bosses offered him a full-time job as an administrator when they read his story in The Argus.

Michelle Lillywhite, admin team leader, said: "We think it is absolutely horrific that he has been threatened with being sent back to Romania.

"He is a fantastic worker and has a smile which melts you."

Dr Newton said: "Vasile was really happy as he went off to work. The job had decent prospects and we thought he would be able to get a work visa."

So when Dr Newton was told later that day this was not enough for a visa, the family was devastated.

Brighton and Sussex universities offered Vasile a place to study for a two-year HND in computing with the option of transferring to a degree.

Dr Newton said: "We have had some very generous offers from readers of The Argus. One lady has already sent a cheque for £1,000. She said Vasile looked like a pleasant young man and his treatment seemed very unfair."

MPs have also pledged their support. Francis Maude, Tory MP for Horsham, said: "Rules have to be enforced but here there is a strong case against deporting Vasile."

To help call 01403 240529 or email s_newton100@ hotmail.com