Journalists at a regional daily signed up to become stem cell donors as part of a campaign launched by a reader.

The Leicester Mercury hosted a donor recruitment event of cancer survivor Rik Basra, who is aiming to sign up people across Leicestershire to the national database run by the charity Anthony Nolan.

Former Leicestershire Police officer Rik and his wife Kas brought their registration campaign to the Mercury’s office, in St George Street, last week.

Rik, who retired from the force after 30 years of service last month, beat leukaemia after a long search for a suitable donor ended in success in Germany.

The campaign is known as Pass It On Leicester.

Mercury graphic designer Katie Bowler was one of the first to register as a potential life-saver.

She said: “They were very genuine people and listening their story of why they are running this campaign makes you realise how important this work is.”

Editor Kevin Booth added: “We were delighted to be approached by Rik and the Anthony Nolan charity to be involved in Pass It On.

“We’ve covered Rik’s story from the word go, right through his most difficult times to this campaign.

“There has always been a great response to our stories about him and we are desperate to continue raising awareness for the cause. It’s been a pleasure to be involved.”