A hugely popular mother-of-two has been described as the “life and soul” of a tight-knit community following her sudden death, aged 42.

Donna Birch, who had sons aged just three and five, tragically died in her sleep at home in Canterbury on Saturday.

Her cousin, Anthony Birch, has spoken of his and the family’s love for Donna and noted how excellent she had been as a parent.

“She was a really loved member of the community and the family – she’s always been a big personality,” the 35-year-old said.

“She was an amazing mum; the kids would never go without and it’s very sad for them right now - they’re very much confused by it all.

“She was easy to chat to, very friendly, very funny - honestly just such a big character.

“Donna was just the life and soul of Sturry Road; everyone nearby knows her and she had time for everyone.”

Born on March 3, 1981, Donna was the third eldest of nine siblings – made up of seven boys and two girls.

Described as being “the best sister”, she retained a very close bond with her family throughout her life, particularly with her mother Gail, from whom she was “inseparable”.

The mum-of-two attended the Frank Montgomery School in Sturry – now Spires Academy – before leaving in the late 1990s to make her way in the culinary world.

Although a lifelong struggle with diabetes would prevent her from working as a chef as regularly as she would have liked, Donna became a pillar of the Sturry Road community.

Having lived near or in the area for the majority of her life, she was known to be someone who could be relied upon for just about everything - whether it be a cup of tea or a helping hand.

However, the thing she longed for most in life was to be a mother.

After meeting partner Raz six years ago, Donna’s wish came true as she welcomed two boys into the world – five-year-old Isaac and three-year-old Rio.

Donna’s step-cousin, Chanel Day, vowed to ensure the children would remember their “very popular and well-loved” mum.

“As many people know, Donna was such a lovely character. She was a genuine person and would always help anyone out,” said Ms Day.

“Donna's name is going to live on in our memories and we will make sure her boys know what a fantastic person she was.

“It’s such a massive shock to the family to hear of Donna’s passing, but together we will all remember Donna for the loud, bubbly, very popular and well-loved woman she was.”

With the family struggling to cover funeral costs, both Chanel and Anthony are hoping to raise £3,000 to be used to pay off some of the bills.

A Gofundme appeal started by Ms Day has so far raised more than £1,000, with more than 50 people chipping in to help the much-loved mother and her family.

Anthony, also a chef, admits it will be hard to cope but hopes they will be able to give Donna the best send-off possible.

He said: “We really want to get this done for the kids, but she deserves it too.”

Donna is survived by her mother, father and siblings, as well as a huge number of cousins, nieces and nephews.