DONORS in Droitwich are being reminded that there will be two blood donation sessions running on Thursday, November 20 at the Chateau Impney Hotel.

The sessions, which are running from 1.15-3.30pm and from 4.30-7pm are open to anyone, and the NHS Blood and Transplant Service is always keen to attract new donors.

Although as much as four per cent of the eligible population does give blood already, red blood cells have a shelf life of only 35 days, while platelets only last for seven days. The service still needs to collect enough blood from each blood group in the right quantities to meet patients’ needs.

Shailesh Mistry, lead donor relations manager for the NHS Blood and Transplant service, said: “As the weather gets colder there is an increase in people who can’t donate due to colds and flu so we really do need every one who can donate to make the effort to do so. So if you are thinking about donating for the first time or you are an existing donor who hasn’t been for a while then please book an appointment to give blood.”

People wanting to donate blood are asked to call in advance and schedule an appointment on 0300 1232323 or visit blood.co.uk.