Give blood regularly, urges service

The NHS hopes that public horror and outrage after terror attacks in London and Manchester will prompt them to become regular blood donors.

The transfusion service was inundated with donations after the atrocities but bosses are now calling on people to donate three or four times a year to help keep stock levels high.

“We don’t necessarily need people to donate straight after an event like we have seen recently but to become regular donors,” NHS blood and transplant’s Katie Burgon said.

“The stocks were in a healthy position before the incidents in London and Manchester and we were not in a position where we were calling out for donations.

“We do not need people to urgently come forward, but we need people to register and become regular donors.”

Residents can donate at a number of drop- in sessions across the district.

Donors need to be aged 17 or over and men can donate every 12 weeks, with women every 16.

“Giving blood helps save someone’s life and it just involves giving up an hour,” Miss Burgon added. District’s drop-in sessions:

Thursday, June 15 (today), Spitfire Ground St Lawrence, Old Dover Road, Canterbury, 1.45pm - 4.30pm or 5.30pm - 8pm.

Thursday, June 22, The King’s Hall, Beacon Hill, Herne Bay; 2pm - 4.30pm or 5.30pm - 8pm.

Wednesday, June 28, Alexander Centre, Preston Street, Faversham; 2pm - 4.30pm or 5.30pm - 8pm.

Thursday, July 13, United Reformed Church, Middle Wall, Whitstable; 2pm - 4.30pm or 5.30pm - 8pm.

Visit www.blood.co.uk for more details.