An award is to be presented in memory of an inspirational student who died aged only 20 after a battle against disability.

The Claire Yarnold award will go to the top beauty therapy student at Keighley College.

Claire, who had suffered a vascular malformation in her left leg since birth, died following a fall downstairs at her home in Riddlesden.

A post-mortem examination at Airedale General Hospital, Steeton, revealed she had died of a blood clot on a kidney.

Claire had been a student at Keighley College since September last year and had inspired students and staff by her determination.

Her mother Sandra, 54, broke her hip as she fell with Claire while helping her upstairs at her home in Southfield Drive, on Monday, October 20. Her father, Frank, 54, a postman, had just left for work.

Mrs Yarnold said: "She loved the course and we have received glowing letters from the college.

"They have had a collection and are to present an award in her memory to a top student. We were told she touched the hearts of so many people. She was an amazing person. She was in so much pain and suffering and nobody knew, but she always had a brave face.

"She gave everything and took little and that was reflected in the number of cards and tributes we have received."

Claire had been treated in Leeds General Infirmary three times. But her death came as a shock to her parents and her brother Neil, 31 and sister Julie, 29, as they were only aware that her kidneys had been affected following her death.

"Claire never knew her kidneys had been affected and her death could have happened at any time. We are thankful it happened when she was at home," said Mrs Yarnold.

A spokesman for Keighley College confirmed an award would be presented in Claire's memory.

Claire's funeral will be held on Wednesday at noon at St Mary's Church, Riddlesden.