PEOPLE in Oxfordshire are being urged to share their organ donation decision and make their loved ones know what they want to happen to them when they die, so that no opportunity to save a life is lost.

New NHS figures reveal that 26 patients donated their organs after death at Oxford University Hospitals last year, helping save or improve the lives of 63 people in need of a transplant in the UK.

An annual report shows deceased organ donation in the UK increased by 18 per cent last year.

In total, 1,397 people donated their organs after death last year, including the 26 at the trust.

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However, the number of people being listed for a transplant has increased and there are currently 6,393 people on the active waiting list.

Dr Andrew Brent, chairman of the organ donation committee and deputy chief medical officer at the trust said: "We are immensely grateful to all the patients and their families who have donated their organs to help save and improve the lives of other patients, and to our organ donation and transplant teams that make this possible.

"There remains a huge need for organ donors to help other patients, so it is important for all of us to register and let our families know our organ donation wishes. Ensuring our families know what we would want to happen when we die makes it much easier if there comes a time when organ donation is a possibility."

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This story was written by Anna Colivicchi, she joined the team this year and covers health stories for the Oxfordshire papers. 

Get in touch with her by emailing: Anna.colivicchi@newsquest.co.uk

Follow her on Twitter @AnnaColivicchi