SEVENTY-ONE people across Sussex have died in the last five years while waiting for a life-saving transplant.

The figure is revealed as new information shows the number of donated organs in the UK has fallen for the first time in more than a decade.

The drop is believed to be caused by fewer people dying in circumstances where they could donate and no increase in the rate of people signing up to give consent for their organs to be used if they die.

NHS Blood and Transplant NHS Trust (NHSBT) says it is vital more people sign the organ donor register and let their families know their wishes.

There are currently 190 people Sussex waiting for a transplant while 81 had their lives saves or improved last year following a transplant.

NHSBT says there has also been a growing number of living donors, who give a kidney or part of their liver.

There have been 21 donations of this type in Sussex.

Holly Pereira, 22, from Uckfield, had a double lung transplant last year after being diagnosed with cystic fibrosis as a child.

Her younger brother Jake, 21, who also has the condition, is currently on the urgent waiting list.

She said: “I would not be here today if it was not for my donor and I will always be grateful for that.

“I just hope the same will happen for Jake. This is why it is so important to sign up.”

NHSBT director Sally Johnson, said: “We are truly grateful to the deceased donors who enabled people in Sussex to receive an organ transplant last year.

“We cannot hope to save more lives unless there is a revolution in attitudes towards organ donation.

“We need everyone talk about organ donation with their families and agree to donate if ever they are asked.

“We understand that families are expected to consider donation in their darkest hour. So we would remind everyone - tell those closest to you now if you want to donate your organs and record that decision.

“Should the time come, your family will know you want to donate your organs to help to save others.”

Jenny Greening, specialist nurse for organ donation at Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, works to support relatives when the issue of organ donation arises.

She said: “It really does make such a difference for families if they know they are doing something their loved one wanted to do.

“Having that discussion really can make it easier for them.”

To join the NHS Organ Donor Register visit www.organdonation.nhs.uk or call 0300 123 2323.