Urgent plea for more blood donors

THE National Blood Service has issued an urgent plea to Oldhamers to donate blood and keep vital stocks up over this summer.

National blood stocks fell by more than seven per cent over the Jubilee bank holiday extended weekend and experts predict a 30 per cent drop during the Olympics.

Statistics show that even regular donors miss appointments during national events and celebrations.

In the 12 months to April this year, there were 3,524 registered active donors in Oldham and between them they gave 5,019 units (a unit is just under a pint).

Jon Latham, North-West spokesman for NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “We need a huge effort from the public ahead of a summer of sport.”

June 11-17 is the second National Blood Week and events will be held across the country to get more people donating. Currently only four per cent of the population donates blood.

If you are eligible to donate or are thinking of donating for the first time visit www.blood.co.uk or call 0300-123 2323 to make an appointment.





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