There is a shortage of organs for transplant

Only 1% of organ donors are black, which leads to much longer waits for black people who need a matching donor.

Transplant success is helped if the donor and recipient are from the same ethnic background and more than 450 black people are currently waiting for a transplant.

Roadside posters and radio adverts are being used as part of the "Be Part of the Solution" campaign, which is being run by UK Transplant.

It says that black people are three times more likely to develop kidney failure and need a transplant than the general population.

It is really important that black people understand this major health issue that could face them or their families Angie Burton, UK Transplant

This is because people from these communities have a higher genetic disposition to illnesses such as diabetes and high blood pressure, which can lead to organ failure.

Since UK Transplant launched a similar campaign in 2002, more than 600 black people have joined the organ donor register.

However, experts say this is nowhere near enough people to starting improving the situation.

No laughing matter

Black comedian Curtis Walker, who is supporting the campaign, said: "When I heard the facts I knew this was a very serious issue for the black community.

"I wanted to add my voice and encourage people to become part of the solution."

Angie Burton, of UK Transplant, said: "It is really important that black people understand this major health issue that could face them or their families.

"By joining the NHS Organ Donor Register and telling their families about their wishes they can play their own part in solving this problem that faces the black community."