Coimbatore has once again found itself in the Guinness Book of World Records. This time for a cause. In what is now officially a new record, more than 13,000 people signed for pledging their organs in eight hours here on Saturday.

Even as the organisers initially planned to gather 15,000 donors for the attempt, only as many as 13,439 donors participated. The previous record was held by people of Haryana in which 10,450 people pledged their organs in 2013.

However, the record was broken by more than 25 per cent in the attempt that was organised by Sri Ramakrishna Hospitals along with various NGOs.

Officially announcing the record, Sofia Greenacre, the official adjudicator of Guinness World Records said that the attempt was never achieved by any other country despite several futile attempts.

“The main qualities of a record are integrity, passion and respect. I think all three were present in this well organised attempt,” she said.

Joining the event after the record attempt which was held between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., actor and comedian Vivek said that the record was a new milestone for Coimbatore, which has been involved in many responsible activities.

“Coimbatore has been a frontrunner in many things including organ donation and this is a feather in the cap,” he added.

Emphasising the importance of spreading awareness about organ donation, Vivek also said that the body does not live long and hence it could also be used after death for a good cause.

Advising young minds Vivek said that students should fancy cinema actors only after giving respects to teachers and parents who are more important in life.

“You should never forget your teacher no matter wherever you go in life,” he advised.

Later Sofia Greenacre handed over the official certificate to the organisers.