FIVE dedicated blood donors who have saved more than 1,000 lives between them have been recognised by NHS Blood and Transplant.
The lifesaving efforts, loyalty and commitment of George Brion, Dr Mark Cartwright, Ann Harrington, David Metcalfe and Alice Porter were marked after they all made their 75th donation.
The group were each honoured with crystal awards at the ceremony at the Croydon Park Hotel, Croydon.
Mrs Harrington, from Horsell, said: “I was working as a journalist in the 1960s when I first donated blood.
“At the time I was told that my blood would go to a baby that needed it. I have carried on donating since and my three daughters all donate now as well.”
Mr Metcalfe, also from Horsell, said: “I am lucky enough to be fit and well so I will carry on donating. There is a continuous demand that needs to be met and one day it may be you or someone that is dear to you.”
Of the four per cent of the population eligible to give blood, only three per cent ever manage to make 75 donations, and just one per cent make 100.
John Canning, lead donor relations manager for Croydon at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “For these donors to get to either one of these milestones is amazing.
“This takes immense loyalty and compassion over a large period of time.
“While the blood donation process will have changed significantly since these people started donating, the need for blood is constant.
“I would like to congratulate all of these donors for their achievement.”