UP to 50 men and women could benefit from a Farnworth man's wish to help others after his death.

Paul Atkinson, 30, decided just days before he died in a road accident to donate his organs if he lost his life.

And it was revealed today that 50 men and women may now benefit from his final gesture.

His only sister, Nichola Rogers, said it was typical of her brother to think about others.

"He was always there for me and he always helped other people. He used to go and get a lottery ticket for an old man who couldn't walk properly. It was always unconditional, he never wanted anything in return.

"Just the other day he told me he wanted to be an organ donor. He said they could take everything, but had to leave his fantastic personality. He had a great sense of humour."

Nichola, 33, said Paul had woken-up on the day he died in a very good mood. He was laughing and joking and saying what a lovely day it was.

She added: "He was a big Bolton Wanderers supporter and kept saying he wished he had £100 so he could go and watch them against Wolves. I wish I had given him the money now."

Paul suffered extensive head and internal injuries after he was in an accident with a motorbike as he tried to cross Longcauseway, Farnworth, during the afternoon rush hour on Tuesday.

Paul, who had recently moved into a flat on Netherton Grove, went to Queen Street Primary and Harper Green Secondary School. He was a hod carrier, but had to quit his job when he was involved in an accident which crushed his spine. He was awaiting the outcome of his claim for compensation. His mother Jean has died, but his father Peter called his son a 'Mr Nice Guy'.

He was very well-known in Farnworth, especially in his local, the Queens. Friends spoke yesterday of their sense of loss.

Lynn Bailey, 34, and Vicky Gartell, 23, said Paul was like an uncle to their children. He would always help them with baby-sitting. He was looking forward to the birth of Vicky's second child in the next few days and was to be the baby's godfather.

The motorcyclist, Darren Sandiford, 36, of Arran Road, Radcliffe, suffered a suspected fractured spine, but later left the Royal Bolton Hospital after treatment.

Traffic police are appealing for witnesses to contact them on 0161 856 5972.