Warwick blood donors thanked for years of selfless giving

The two donors, who had collectively made 207 donations, were honoured for their lifesaving efforts with commemorative medals at the ceremony at Dunchurch Park Hotel.

They joined 33 other blood donors from across Warwickshire - all those at the ceremony had donated on at least 100 occasions.

John King, a local government officer has been giving blood for approximately 43 years after being encouraged by a friend.

The 65-year-old said: “I thought if my friend can give blood so can I.

“Giving blood is easy and painless and only requires about an hour of my time two or three times a year.”

Fellow donor Peter Lamb, who is now retired, started giving blood in the 1970’s after joining work colleagues who were already blood donors

Peter, aged 67, said: “Giving blood is essential.

“Any one of us might need it someday.”

Guest speaker Natasha Pollock, from Stratford-upon-Avon, thanked donors for the 39 units of blood which saved her life on Christmas day in 2015 after a complicated emergency c-section.

Natasha said: “I just wouldn’t be alive without blood donors.

“My children wouldn’t have their mother and my husband wouldn’t have his wife.

“The staff at the hospital called me their ‘Christmas miracle’ after telling me I hold the record for the most blood transfused in any single procedure at the hospital. “

Karen Healy, Senior Marketing Coordinator at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “These loyal donors are very special to us, which is why such an event gives us the opportunity to say a real heartfelt thanks.

“Between them, they have saved thousands of lives and improved the lives of countless others who have required blood transfusions.

“These donors are an inspiration to us all.”

To book an appointment call the Donor Line on 0300 1232323 or visit www.blood.co.uk