THE Alder Hey organs scandal shocked Britain. But we must not let one horror story prompt another.

Hundreds of people in Yorkshire are desperately waiting for an organ transplant. But organs have been taken from only two donors in the region since the Alder Hey story broke. Unless more become available, patients who could be saved will die.

People were shocked by the stockpiling of organs for scientific research. But that practice must be kept distinct from the use of organs for transplant. Anyone who signs up to be an organ donor is giving the gift of life. It is a wonderfully noble thing to do. Please think about it.

Updated: 12:22 Monday, February 12, 2001