Nearly 3,000 organs are transplanted in this country each year including more than 2,000 sight-saving corneal transplants.

Heart, liver and kidney transplants, which were once unheard of, are now commonplace due to scientific advances.

There is no maximum age for some donations and having an existing medical condition does not necessarily prevent a person from becoming a donor.

The most successful transplants are among people from the same ethnic background.

You can specify what organs you wish to donate.

Make sure that those closest to you know your final wishes. That way, they will have one less ordeal to cope with.

Carrying a donor card or putting your name on a register confirms your decision to be a donor.

Call for an organ donation register leaflet on 0845 60 60 400 or simply register online at www.nhsorgandonor.net.

You can also write direct to the NHS Organ Donor Register at PO Box 14, Freepost, Patchway, Bristol, BS34 8ZZ.

If you have a driving licence sent to you after March 1993, tick the organ donor box on the back.

New licence application forms also have a donor request tick box.

Anyone applying for a new passport will automatically receive a donor leaflet.

Further questions should be directed to: UK Transplant, Fox Den Road, Stoke Gifford, Bristol, BS34 8RR.