Blood donor helps save 225 lives

Diane Carpenter, 64, of Orion Close, Hailsham, has given blood 75 times.

She has now been given a special Royal Doulton crystal plate to honour her achievement.

She said: 'I'm really pleased to have reached 75 donations.

'I've found donating easy.

'The staff are very helpful and a happy bunch.'

The retired shop keeper first gave blood 42 years ago in Edenbridge.

Zeeshan Asghar, from the National Blood Service, said: 'Loyal donors such as Diane are vital to ensure patients receive the blood they need.

'We are very grateful for her generosity and continued commitment.'

Sitting on a bed to give blood takes only ten minutes but means the difference between life or death for some patients.

Anyone aged 17 to 70, in general good health and weighing more than 7st 12lbs (50kg) can give blood.

For more information phone 08457 711 711 or visit www.blood.co.uk