A campaign to find a stem cell match for a 10-year-old boy has seen 500 people sign up as donors.

Eddie North, from Whiteley, was diagnosed with aplastic anaemia and is in urgent need of a stem cell transplant.

However, there is currently no perfect match for him on the stem cell donor register.

His family, led by mum Melissa, teamed up with blood cancer charity DKMS to organise a special stem cell donor registration event on Saturday, November 16 at St John's Church in Hedge End.

MP Paul Holmes attended the event (Image: DKMS) Melissa made a heartfelt plea to the community, saying: "Please, please sign up to the stem cell register.

"It would mean the world not only to me, but to any family going through their worst nightmare.

"I can’t do this on my own – I can’t save my little boy on my own without the generosity of others."

The community responded with overwhelming support, with 500 people joining the stem cell register online following the campaign launch, and 62 people signing up in person at the event.

The event also raised £625 for DKMS through activities including a raffle and bake sale.

62 people signed up in person to join the stem cell register at the event (Image: DKMS) Among those who signed up was Susie from Portsmouth, who said: "It’s super-easy; I’ve just done three cheek swabs – it took three minutes. It’s super-important."

Sarah, who had a personal reason for supporting the North family, said: "I was told at 39 that I probably had a year to live, but thanks to my stem cell transplant here I am at nearly 60.

"My stem cell transplant saved my life and it saves the lives of thousands of people every year.

"Please sign up – it could change the lives of families like Eddie’s forever."

MP for Hamble Valley Paul Holmes also attended and said: "Joining the stem cell register was a really easy process.

"I’d encourage everyone who’s eligible in the local area, and nationally, to get on the stem cell register so we can help young people and adults who have blood cancers and blood disorders."

Eddie is one of approximately 2,000 people in the UK waiting for a stem cell transplant.

Anyone aged 17-55 and in general good health can join the stem cell register at dkms.org.uk.