Dozens of balloons were released into the Oxford sky yesterday in Broad Street to raise awareness of World Kidney Day.

Sponsors, fundraisers and Inspector Morse writer Colin Dexter got involved to collect donations and sign up new donors. Mr Dexter said: "I am cheered at the thought that, once I am gone, I can help save lives."

Yesterday, the Oxford Mail urged people to join its Sign Up to Save a Life campaign, which is backed by Mr Dexter.

Claire Smith, 36, from Abingdon, said: "Seeing a very good friend of mine recovering from kidney disease would not have been possible without organ donors."

Ann Bettle, 53, and Dani Baxtor, 42, both from Wantage, were also in the street to give their backing to the campaign. Ms Bettle, who vowed to register as a donor at the end of the day, said: "We chose the kidney day charity because a close colleague of ours has been a recipient of a kidney donation."

Peter Marshall, the chairman of the Oxford transplant foundation, was also on hand to offer his support.

The 71-year-old, from Newbury, said: "My wife has had three transplants and I am extremely grateful for those who helped her. I wish to help patients just as others have helped my wife."