THE incredible selflessness of those who put their own lives at risk to save others must always be commended.

Despite the best efforts of the region’s mountain rescue teams, two walkers have sadly died recently while enjoying themselves on the snow-capped fells of the Lake District.

It is the hundreds of volunteers who make up these teams, which operate across the whole of the Lake District, who are the epitome of community spirit.

Many of them have full-time jobs, families and, of course, they have heir own - but when the emergency 999 call comes they drop all that, often in the dead of the night, to go to the aid of a stranger in need.

Winter often brings many call-outs and this weekend was no different.

Each rescue costs money so next time you walk past a donation box please drop some loose change in - you never know when you might need their help.

Talking of acts of kind, it is wonderful to see Chris Hogg, the Deputy Mayor of Kendal, speaking out about a kidney donation he is making to his wife later this year.

With hundreds, if not thousands, of people on the waiting list for organs, it is important that the issue is brought into the public eye.

One of the most miraculous achievements and advances of modern medicine, transplants depend on the generosity of donors and their families who are willing to make this life-saving or life-enhancing gift to others.

One donor can save the life of several people, restore the sight of two others and improve the quality of life of many more.

Signing up to the organ donor register is a big decision and one that should not be taken lightly. However, your kindness could save somebody’s life.

In 2010 The Westmorland Gazette launched its Gift of Life campaign, which encouraged people to register to donate their organs. It was a major success, with thousand of readers joining the register.

It would be fantastic if that kind of enthusiasm was shown again now.