SOUTH Lakes MP Tim Farron is calling for local people to sign up to the organ donor register as part of National Transplant Week (July 7-13).

Mr Farron has backed the NHS Blood and Transplant team's 'Spell it Out’ campaign, encouraging people to sign up to the organ donor register and let their close family and friends know that they are on the register and want to donate their organs.

"More people are willing to be an organ donor than are actually signed up," he said.

"But signing up and telling your relatives of your decision would saves thousands of lives.

"I hope that during National Transplant Week people can make a big difference and save a life."

On average three people die each day waiting for an organ to become available, yet a single donor can save or transform the lives of up to nine people.

Families have to give permission for organ donation even if their deceased loved one has signed up to the register - and many say ‘no’ as they are unaware of their family member’s wishes.

The campaign asks people to ‘spell it out’ to their families and friends that they are on the register and want their organs to be donated.

To join the register visit www.organdonation.nhs.uk