A teenager who was diagnosed with leukaemia and had a life-saving bone marrow transplant four years ago, organised a tea party to thank the Anthony Nolan Trust, which found her a donor.

Jade Bowler, 19, from Frere Road, Norwich, arranged yesterday's event at the Great Hospital in Bishopgate, Norwich, where her mother Beverley is a carer.

It was the second fundraising event the family have organised. Two years ago, they took part in a Big Chocolate Tea Party, also at The Great Hospital.

That event was for the Sick Children's Trust, which provides free accommodation to families who have to travel a long way to be with their ill children, and gave her parents a place to stay while she was at Addenbrooke's in Cambridge. The teenager said: 'We put in a lot of effort. It's taken from around May-time to now organising it all.

'We've been calling up companies non-stop, getting them to donate; loads of companies have sponsored us including Odeon and TGI Fridays. Tetley has sponsored tea, and Cravendale, milk.

'I love fundraising but I'll be glad when it's over. Two years ago, we managed to raise £1,000 so, hopefully, we will reach the £1,000 mark again.'

Her mother added that the Great Hospital tried to stage fundraising events every few days.

She said: 'But this one is close to our hearts because, obviously, they gave Jade a transplant.'

Jade's father Kevin added: 'This is something money can't buy. Opening up the Evening News, the EDP and other newspapers and seeing other children fundraising makes others want to do it, and it's good for their well-being. '

Care manager at the Great Hospital, Anne Loveday said the last event they staged was held in a small restaurant on the site, and was cramped.

'That's why we hosted it at the Birkbeck Hall this time,' she added.

Are you holding an event in Norwich for charity? Email david.bale2@archant.co.uk