ONE of the sons of former Clarets manager Joe Brown has died after time ran out for his search for a new liver.

Father-of-two Nigel Brown, 48, was receiving treatment at St James's Hospital, Leeds, after being diagnosed with liver disease this year.

But the hunt for a suitable donor was unsuccessful and Nigel died on Friday with his family by his bedside. His two daughters Abigail, 23, and Laura, 18, both chose to work and study in the city to be close to their father.

Today his devastated parents Joe, 75, and Constance, 76, who live in Pasturegate, Burnley, paid tribute to their son. And they said they hoped more donors would step up to save others in need of vital transplants.

Although the NHS Organ Donor Register marked its 10th anniversary last month, just 20 per cent of the population are registered.

There is now around 6,000 people waiting for organ transplants and last year alone 15 people died while waiting for a suitable donor.

Constance said: "Nigel had been travelling to Leeds regularly for treatment. But because he was tall and had a rare blood group it was proving hard to find a suitable liver for him.

"His time just ran out. He was a good son."

Joe, whose footballing career began in the 1940s and saw him play for Middlesbrough and Bournemouth, as well as Burnley, said: "It would be nice if more people would come forward and register as donors since there is such a shortage.

"Nigel was not one of the lucky ones but if others were to register then someone with the same problems might be more fortunate in the future.

"We will obviously miss Nigel dreadfully. He was one of those people who could go into any group and get on with anyone.

"He was so well known and well-loved."

Joe's career also saw him involved in the youth set-up and as assistant manager at Burnley FC before he took over the reins as manager for the 1976-77 season. He went on to the youth development team at Manchester United before retiring eight years ago.

Nigel went to Burnley Grammar School and worked for NatWest Bank before he left to go travelling. He was running two card shops in Clitheroe and Rawtenstall at the time of his death.

He leaves Joe and Constance, daughters Abigail and Laura and brother Martin. A funeral has yet to be arranged.

To register as an organ donor, call 0845 60 60 400.