Northampton Town supporters urged to think about signing up to transplant waiting list

The Sign for Life campaign asks supporters across the country to think about organ donation and to be inspired by their club to sign up to the NHS Organ Donor Register and pass the message on to family and friends.

Currently, there are about 6,500 people waiting for a transplant across the UK, including many in Northamptonshire and on average three people die every day because of the shortage of organs available.

Cobblers skipper Marc Richards is a recipient of an organ donation, he said: “We are really proud to be supporting Sign for Life and we are encouraging our fans and their friends and family to join the Organ Donor Register and talk about organ donation.

"There are around 6,500 people on the transplant waiting list, so we are asking our supporters to get behind the campaign and commit to saving and improving lives through organ donation.”

NHS Blood and Transplant has joined forces with Cobblers fans to help relegate deaths in need of a transplant.

Anthony Clarkson, Assistant Director for Organ Donation and Nursing at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “We know that for any football fan their support for their club is a lifelong commitment and passion, and one that they will proudly discuss with all their family and friends.

“In partnership with clubs including the Cobblers, we want fans to show the same pride about their decision to be an organ donor and tell everyone that they and their club are passionate about saving lives. Every club will have fans who are waiting for a lifesaving transplant. By joining the NHS Organ Donor Register and sharing your decision you could save lives.

“We are delighted to have so many clubs working with us. Together we can use our national game as a force for good, and help ends transplant waiting lists and people dying in need of a transplant.”

Clubs across the country have pledged their support for the campaign, which runs until April 9.

Fans can join the NHS Organ Donor Register at www.organdonation.nhs.uk/signforlife or call 0300 123 23 23. Let your family and friends know about your decision to be an organ donor. Join the conversation online, using the hashtag #signforlife