HUNDREDS of people were tested to become bone marrow donors in support of a North-East woman who is suffering from leukaemia.

Nearly 350 people gave blood samples to nurses at the Middleton Grange Shopping Centre, in Hartlepool, to support Kim Goodrich, a security guard at the centre.

Their details will be analysed and kept on a database to see if they are a match for Ms Goodrich or any other sufferers around the world.

The 36-year-old is undergoing treatment in hospital and needs a bone marrow transplant.

The Anthony Nolan Trust held a clinic at the centre on Saturday. A trust spokesman said: "It is a fantastic response and it is really good that so many people are prepared to help strangers.

"Essentially they could be saving someone's life.

"We are hoping we can find a match for Kim and are very pleased with the way people in Hartlepool reacted."

People become donors by having marrow extracted from their back or by giving blood.

Their details are put on a global database that identifies any matches.

Anyone who would like to become a donor is asked to call 0207 284 1234 or to visit the website at www.anthonynolan.org.uk