KIND-HEARTED readers have swamped News Shopper phone lines to offer their help to leukaemia sufferer Alex Wardrope.

Last week Alex's mother made an emotional appeal for donors, saying her son "would not survive" without a bone marrow transplant.

Since then 100 readers, touched by the plight of the brave 19-year-old, have called in offering to become a donor.

Mrs Wardrope, of Sidewood Road, New Eltham, says she is "overwhelmed" by the volume of support she has received.

She said: "It has been an absolutely fantastic response.

"Alex is not the only person in this position. We need people to come forward and realise they could help to save a life.

"I just hope more people pick up the phone to offer their help."

Residents from all over the News Shopper area have offered to put their name on the Anthony Nolan national bone marrow register.

Christine James, 57, of Dulverton Road, New Eltham, said: "I lost my father to leukaemia 35 years ago and have always given blood on a regular basis ever since.

"If there is anything I can do to help then I would like to do it."

Edith Ajayi, from Sydenham, said: "I have never felt like this before.

"I just looked at that young man and thought oh my god, he is my daughter's age'. This could have happened to her."

Giuseppe Santaniello, of Fairlawn, Bellingham, said: "When I read the story it really moved me. I just feel so sorry for the poor guy.

"Hopefully I have got what he needs and I can help to save his life."

Alex was diagnosed with Acute T-Cell Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in January last year.

This strain of the blood cancer spreads rapidly through the body and is fatal unless treated rapidly.

Anyone interested in helping Alex and becoming a donor should call 01689 885790.

EDITOR'S COMMENT

I MUST have the best job in the world.

True, we write some incredibly sad stories and, at times, report on terrible human suffering.

But, at the same time, even at such low points, through my job I am privileged to witness the very best of the human spirit.

We regularly ask people to give generously of their time or their hard-earned cash and the reaction never ceases to amaze me. Not least, because those who have so little themselves often give the most.

Well, on this occasion we asked people for something more to step in and donate their bone marrow. This is no small commitment, the discomfort alone, without even considering possible complications, made this a very serious request.

But, once again News Shopper readers stepped forward to demonstrate their incredible generosity.

We don't yet know what the future holds but I'm sure he cannot fail to be immensely cheered by the support you've shown him. On Alex's behalf and everyone at News Shopper, I thank you.

ANDREW PARKES