Hundreds of patients waiting for operation in the region

The figures are being highlighted to encourage more donors Credit: PA

As National Transplant Week begins, the NHS is appealing for people to "have a conversation" with their loved one about organ donation.

The theme is "Pass It On," which is aiming to encourage people to join the NHS Organ Donor Register.

The campaign is being supported by a number of celebrities who have recorded short films hoping to inspire people to talk to their loved ones about organ donation.

Figures show 95% of families agree to donation if a loved one has discussed their wishes and is registered on the Organ Donor Register, this drops to only 46% when donation wishes aren't known.

Click here for more information on National Transplant Week.