MECHANIC Alan Simm may have saved someone he's never met -- 20 years after throwing out the lifeline.

For the 48-year-old from Rainhill donated a pint of precious bone marrow to try and save the life of a leukaemia patient.

Alan, who works for Ellisons Coaches, joined the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Register 20 years ago. At the time he only had to give a small sample of blood which was held on the trust's database in London.

Then a few months ago, the father-of-one was contacted by the trust and told that he could be a match for a patient. Further tests confirmed he was a suitable donor and Alan went to London where he donated some of his bone marrow under general anaesthetic. The patient received the bone marrow within hours and Alan was back home the following day.

He told the Star: "I am one of the oldest people to have donated bone marrow. But after a few days rest at home I feel fine and I'm back at work now. I was told that I might suffer from lower back pains and feel tired, although so far I haven't had any problems. "But I've taken the advice of the doctor to take things easy for a fortnight.

"I am pleased I have been able to help someone by doing this simple thing, now I'd just like to get on with my life and hope that the patient will soon be able to do the same."

Alan, who is married to Gillian, is also helping the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust launch its appeal for people to take part in the Liverpool to Chester Bike Ride on Sunday, July 2.

For information on joining the register or any of their fund-raising events, call Ruth Carter on 0151 707 9359.