With blood in constant demand new donors are always needed, but figures show that only 4 percent of the eligible population donate regularly. It only takes an hour and it really can save someone's life.

John Canning, Lead Donor Relations Manager from NHS Blood and Transplant said: "The need for blood is constant and we are calling on people to find that extra hour in a day to come and give blood. Hospitals need to be stocked up and thanks to dedicated donors, this is made possible. The autumn provides us with an extra hour as the clocks go back, so we would encourage donors to take advantage of this and help save a life."

Blood is not just used in accident and emergency situations, but to treat a range of illnesses like cancer, anaemia and premature babies. Each blood donation can be split into component parts, so just one unit of donated blood can be used to help save the lives of three people.

The next local sessions will be at:

Caterham United Reform Church

Harestone Hill,

Caterham,

Surrey. CR3 6SX

Friday, November 5, 2010

Friday, January 7, 2011

14:00 to 16:30 and 17:30 to 19:45

Anyone aged between 17-65, weighing more than 50 kg (7 stone 12lbs) and in general good health could potentially start saving lives by becoming a blood donor. There is no upper age limit for donors who have donated in the last two years. For more information or to book an appointment, call 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk