TV star Lorraine Kelly has backed a Glasgow MSP's plans to introduce a "soft" opt-out transplant system in Scotland.

Her support comes as Anne McTaggart secured the right to formally introduce her Bill to the Scottish Parliament after the deadline passed, yesterday, for the Scottish Government to act.

Glasgow-born Lorraine was an early supporter of the Evening Times' campaign to change the law - which we launched more than three years ago.

Under a soft opt-out system, individuals would not be required to sign up to the register if they wish to donate after death but family members would still be consulted about the final decision.

Charities and doctors' leaders believe the change would significantly increase the number of donors and help address waiting lists for life-saving transplants.

Lorraine said: "Throughout the Opt for Life campaign, I've read some of the incredible stories of people who have been lucky enough to receive a successful transplant.

"The heart-breaking reality, however, is that 38 people died in Scotland in 2013/14 while waiting for a transplant.

"We need to stop this needless loss of life and that's why I'm proud to be able to support Anne's Bill.

"I believe introducing a "soft opt-out" system is important because despite there being widespread support for organ donation, less than half of Scotland's population is registered on the NHS Organ Donation Register.

"It's clear to me we need to take a

different approach.

"In the past, I've encouraged people to speak to their families about organ donation and I'm glad I've had that discussion with my own loved ones.

I hope the introduction of a "soft opt-out"system will encourage more people to make decisions about donation."

Anne McTaggart MSP said: "I'm delighted to have secured the right to introduce my proposals to Parliament and have received Lorraine Kelly's support for my Bill.

"She has done fantastic work promoting organ donation in the past, and I know her support is greatly appreciated by people who have received transplants and those on the waiting list.

"I am now looking forward to introducing my Bill to Parliament and will relish the opportunity to put forward the case for positive change to my

fellow MSPs."