WITH the summer games coming to an end, blood donors in Huddersfield are being urged to keep stocks healthy ahead of winter.

Currently 7,000 units of blood are needed in hospitals across England and North Wales every day.

And NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) are reminding new and regular donors how important a contribution is.

Lead donor relations manager for NHSBT Donna Batty said: “We are so grateful to all the donors who helped us over a very busy summer.

“Now we need people to keep giving, or come and donate for the first time, so that we can ensure that stocks remain at healthy levels.

“With every donation potentially saving three lives, you really can make an amazing contribution by giving blood.”

Blood has a shelf-life of 35 days for red blood cells and seven days for platelets and therefore NHSBT warns it is imperative donors come forward to help. Anyone aged between 17 and 65 weighing more than 50kg 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. To book an appointment call the Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk.

Sessions in our area will be held in the following locations between 2pm and 4pm and 5pm and 7.30pm except where stated.

Methodist Mission, Lord Street on September 3; United Church, Kirkheaton on September 4; St John the Divine Church Hall, Brighouse on September 7; Healds Hall Hotel, Liversedge, on September 11; St Andrews Methodist church, Mirfield, on September 13; Methodist Mission, Lord Street on September 17; St John the Divine Church Hall, Brighouse on September 28 and Rowley Lane Junior School on September 30 between 11am and 2pm.