PHARMACISTS in Halton are being asked to join the front line in a campaign to encourage people to become organ donors.

UK Transplant, the organisation responsible for maintaining the NHS Organ Donor Register, is urging chemists to display distinctive red and blue organ donor cards and registration leaflets to increase the chances of survival for thousands of people whose lives depend on finding a donor quickly.

At present, while there are more than 7,000 people across the UK in need of a transplant, fewer than 2,700 such operations take place each year - and in that time almost 400 people on the waiting list die, with many others losing their lives without ever getting on the list.

But although 90% of people in the UK support organ donation, only 18% have registered their wish to help others after their death.

Penny Hallett, director of communications and public relations at UK Transplant, said: 'The research also revealed that while people are willing to register as donors, they don't know how to get hold of a registration form or donor card.

'They told us it needed to be easier to find a registration form - and they wanted the opportunity to pick one up at their local pharmacy.'

The campaign is being supported by the NHS Prescription Pricing Authority.

Penny added: 'Transplants save and enhance lives and donor families say it gives them comfort to know their loved one has helped someone, somewhere.' More information on organ donation is available by contacting 0845 6060400, or visiting www.uktransplant.org.uk.