A MUM-of-two has died from leukaemia - just days after being told a bone marrow donor had been found.

Karla Neckles, 21, of Hainault, died on Sunday at Barts Hospital despite doctors finding a bone marrow match for her in Germany.

Miss Neckles was diagnosed with blood cancer in January, but was last week told she would only have to wait three or four weeks for the transplant to go ahead.

The Guardian joined the search to help her find a donor as the former gymnast's search was hindered by the fact her ethnic make-up is the under-represented on the register.

The Anthony Nolan Trust ran a clinic to try and find a donor at Miss Neckles' old school in Newham.

Alex Frazier, from the Trust, said: "We are all extremely sorry to hear about Karla and pass on our sincerest sympathy to Karla's family at this most difficult time.

"Karla was incredibly brave and absolutely determined in fighting her illness.

"I hope that Karla's battle does not go un-noticed, but will encourage many more people to think seriously about becoming a bone marrow donor and helping other mums, dads, brothers and sisters desperately waiting for a life-saving bone marrow match."

Miss Neckles' family are, not surprisingly, distraught and are looking after her two children, Lenny, three, and six-month-old Joshua.

If you would like to join the register, contact the Anthony Nolan Trust on: 7284 1234 or visit: anthonynolan.org.uk for more information.

Anyone who knew Karla and would like to pay tribute to her can contact Crystal Wilde on: 07500 105 941 or email: cwilde@london.newsquest.co.uk