DORSET organ donors have been honoured posthumously for saving the lives of others and giving hope after their deaths.

The Order of St John award for Organ Donation, run in conjunction with NHS Blood and Transplant, has been presented to the families and loved ones of those who saved and improved people’s lives through organ donation.

Those recognised at the ceremony in Dorchester last month included Corrine Rigler from Poole, who received the award on behalf of her husband, Terence, Margaret Pettitt from Gilling-ham, who received the award on behalf of her husband, Keith, Janet Chapman from Christ-church, honoured on behalf of her husband Martin, and Susan Smith from Wimborne, who received the award on behalf of her son, Jeffrey Smith. The awards were presented by the county’s Lord Lieutenant, Angus Campbell.

Richard Keightley, chairman of the local County Priory Group of the Order of St John, said: “Organ donation can clearly save lives and it is also vitally important to say thank you to the families whose loved ones have already donated their organs to assist others.

“With around three people dying every day due to the shortage of organs, these donors and their families have carried out an inspirational act to help others.

“We hope the example they have set will encourage many more to follow in their footsteps and agree to become an organ donor.”

Sally Johnson, director of organ donation and transplantation at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “These families deserve this honour and recognition of their life-saving gifts.

“We hope their bravery will inspire others to talk about their own wishes with people close to them and record their intention to donate on the NHS Organ Donor Register.’ To join the NHS Organ Donor Register visit organdonation.nhs. uk or call 0300 123 2323 or text SAVE to 62323.