TEENAGER Kim Stobbs has suffered a setback in her fight against leukaemia.

The 14-year-old underwent a bone marrow transplant from her younger sister, Kate, aged ten.

But in the three months since the operation, Kim has only spent two nights at home.

Her father, Frank, said: "We are totally gutted. Words cannot describe it. All Kim wants is to be home and we all want her back." Her family sprung a surprise welcome home party at their home in Burnhope, near Consett, but the following morning Kim was back in hospital.

Mr Stobbs said: "We had 200 balloons and banners and all the family hiding in the bushes - it was great.

"We had a lot of tears when she found out she had to go back in."

Kim was in the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle for five weeks for her bone marrow transplant. She went home for one night but was sent straight back after complaining of high temperatures.

Three weeks later, she was discharged again, but only spent one night at home before being taken back.

Doctors diagnosed an infection inside the tube in her chest which adminsters the medication she needs.

The family hope she will be home this weekend.