Ms Namusoke, 42, from Sulgrave Road, Washington, fled her native Uganda more than five years ago and, with her sons, Joash, six, and Jotham, four, has been living in fear of being returned.

In 2006, after her application for asylum had been refused, Ms Namusoke was taken out of her home and moved to a detention centre near Gatwick.

With the help of Fraser Kemp MP, and friends from Bethany Christian Centre, Houghton, the family were given a reprieve just hours before they were due to be put on a plane.

She was forced to re-apply for asylum and over the past year has been gathering evidence about the threat she and her two sons would face if they were returned to the east African country.

But Ms Namusoke has now been told she can stay.

"I'm allowed to stay in the UK," said a delighted Ms Namusoke. "I found out this morning. I can't believe it."

She said she hadn't been given a reason, but she has been given indefinite leave to stay in this country, where she has many friends.

"I'd like to thank everyone for their support – they've given me a sense of belonging."