THE mother of a Worcestershire man whose tragic death meant another life was saved have spoken out in favour of organ donation.

Your Worcester News reported last month on how the number of people donating organs has fallen for the first time in more than a decade.

Now, Dee Andrews, the mother of Evesham man Simon Andrews — who died on May 19 last year as a result of injuries he sustained while competing in the North West 200 motorcycle races in Belfast — has spoken out about the importance of organ donation.

Mrs Andrews said: "Simon knew the risks, he loved the sport but he made provision in case something tragic happened. Simon felt passionately about organ donation and had carried an Organ Donor Card for many years.

"Following the crash, Simon donated a kidney to a man in his forties who had been on the transplant list since 2009.

"A man in his fifties received Simon’s other kidney and pancreas — he is married with a wife and son and had been on the transplant list since 2013. Another man in his fifties who had been extremely unwell received a liver transplant.

"A young man in his twenties received Simon’s heart. He is married with two children and his wife is pregnant with their third child. He would undoubtedly have died without this life saving surgery."

During the 31-year-old's funeral, held at Worcester Cathedral in front of more than 1,800 people, a letter regarding the recipients of the organs was read out from the Organ Donor Association, informing people of the medical problems they suffered.

It is now twelve months since their operations and they are all doing well.

His mother added: "Simon’s wishes to donate his eyes was also honoured and these have been prepared for future transplantation operations which will hopefully restore sight to a number of individuals.

"Organ donation is at a five year low, not only through lack of donors coming forward, but also family members not giving their consent. It is important your wishes are known.

"It gives me great comfort knowing that Simon transformed the lives of all these individuals."

To become a donor, visit www.organdonation.nhs.uk.