Stratford blood donors honoured with medals after 312 donations

DEDICATED blood donors from Stratford-upon-Avon, who have potentially saved more than 900 lives between them, have been recognised by NHS Blood and Transplant for their loyalty and commitment.

The three blood donors who had collectively made 312 donations were honoured for their lifesaving efforts with commemorative medals.

They joined 34 other blood donors from across the West Midlands. All those at a special he ceremony have donated on at least 100 occasions.

Paul Day, 65, from Wilmcote near Stratford has been donating blood since 1971 after starting to donate during his university’s ‘Rag Week’. The university had a target to collect a ‘tonne’ of blood so Paul and his friends went along to support the campaign.

Paul said: “Giving blood is a very pleasant experience, blood is a necessity but I always have a feel good feeling knowing that I have done something to help others.”

Each blood donation can potentially save the lives of up to three people so if a donor has given blood 100 times they have potentially helped save the lives of up to 300 patients in local hospitals through donating blood. Out of the three per cent of the population who give blood just one per cent reach 100 donations.

To book an appointment call the Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk