The family and friends of a Havering schoolgirl who died of a brain tumour have raised more than �20,000 in her memory in the two years since her death.

Katelyn Donovan, a popular student at Coopers’ Company and Coborn School, in St Mary’s Lane, Upminster, was just 14 when she lost her 18-month battle with cancer in December 2010.

In tribute, a website was created in January 2011 and since then fundraisers have donated thousands of pounds for various cancer charities.

Katelyn’s Christmas Ball 2012, held at Hutton Poplar Hall, Brentwood, last month, was hailed the “most glamorous and largest event” yet by mum Mary-Anne Donovan, from Marlborough Gardens, Upminster.

More than 100 people enjoyed the black-tie evening - which saw Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Hope Murphy serenade guests - raising more than �5,000.

Attendee Anne Hayes said: “It was a fantastic evening, everyone looked glamorous, the hall was stunning and of course we were all honoured to be part of the evening which was held in memory of the lovely Katelyn Donovan.”

The money will go to The Brain Tumour Charity, the largest dedicated brain tumour charity in the UK.

Dad Jerry Donovan, who took part in Movember for the same charity, said: “It’s been a hard, dreadful, two years, but the fundraising goes some way to helping.

“Brain tumours account for so many deaths and yet research into them is very underfunded; every penny we raise will go to helping find a cure.”

For more information on Katelyn’s Christmas Ball 2012, making contributions or donations for future events, or to be placed on the e-mail list, please contact Mary-Anne at: thepurplegiraffe@hotmail.co.uk or visit http://katelynyvonnedonovan.vpweb.co.uk