A campaigner has been championed by the Prime Minister and an MP for raising awareness of organ donation in BAME communities.

Kirit Modi, a kidney transplant recipient from Harrow, received a Points of Light award at a reception to mark Diwali.

He also received a letter from Theresa May and congratulations from Harrow East MP Bob Blackman for his work with the National Kidney Federation and The National Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) Transplant Alliance (NBTA).

A shortage of kidneys for transplant is particularly acute among BAME communities with Asian patients on average having to wait six months longer than someone from a white background - accordingly to Mr Blackman’s office.

Kirit received his award from the Prime Minister’s husband, Philip May.

In a personal letter to Kirit, Mrs May said: "Your work with the National Kidney Federation and National BAME Transplant Alliance is raising awareness and changing attitudes about organ donation in Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities.

You should feel incredibly proud of the work you are doing with faith and community groups to increase the number of organ donors and help some of the most vulnerable people in our society."

Bob Blackman encouraged BAME communities to sign up as donors, adding: “I congratulate Kirit Modi in his endeavours being recognised by the Prime Minister and now receiving such an illustrious award.”

Mr Modi said he was “honoured” to be recognised, adding: “Our aim should be that nobody should die while waiting for an organ transplant in the UK.

“I believe that the introduction of deemed consent in England will generate a national debate which will significantly increase the number of organ donors.

“I am passionate about explaining the key messages related to deemed consent, particularly within the Hindu and Jain communities."