Local blood donors recognised for major contributions

Peter Mitchell and Moira Churchill have given blood more than 170 times between them

TWO West Berkshire blood donors have been recognised for giving blood more than 170 times between them.

Peter Mitchell, aged 65, from Newbury, and Moira Churchill, aged 72, of Thatcham, were recognised at the NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) donor awards at The White House in Englemere.

Research by NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) suggests many young people are either too busy or daunted to donate blood with 60,019 fewer donors aged between 17 and 34 now giving blood compared to in 2001, but Mr Mitchell said he started giving blood when he was 18.

He said: “Just think if your very best friend for some reason needed blood and you could provide it, you wouldn't hesitate. Giving blood makes a big contribution and it hardly takes any time at all.”

The 65-year-old, who was presented with a crystal decanter for donating blood 100 times, added: “It was nice of the NHS to recognise us.”

The West Berkshire pair got to meet individuals who have been kept alive by the aid of blood transfusions, such as guest speaker, Margaret Howe, aged 63, from Crowthorne, who said: "I wouldn't be here without blood donors."

Mrs Churchill, of Thatcham, first gave blood in 1961 to help a loved one. She said: “What made me give blood was my now husband, Keith, was in a serious motorbike accident and I thought if I can give blood to help him or anyone else who needs blood then it's a good thing.”

The couple have now been married 47 years.

The 72-year-old received a crystal plate in recognition of donating blood 75 times.

If you want to find out about donating blood call 0300 123 23 23 or click on the link below.