RESIDENTS are being urged to donate blood ahead of the May bank holidays.

NHS Blood and Transplant is reminding people in Essex to think about those less fortunate than themselves and make a date to donate.

Hospitals across England and North Wales need more than 6,000 blood donations every day to treat patients. While many people think that blood is used mainly for accidents and emergencies, donated blood is vital for a wide variety of life-saving procedures.

Michelle Laserna, from NHS Blood and Transplant said: “As the weather gets better we understand that people would like to spend time enjoying it, but please don’t forget about those patients who rely on blood donors to save their lives or keep them well.”

NHS Blood and Transplant needs to ensure supplies of blood groups O Rh Negative, A Rh Negative, B Rh Negative and AB Rh Negative.

In general, as long as you are fit and healthy, weigh over 7 stone 12 lbs and are aged between 17 and 66 (up to 70 if you have given blood before) you should be able to give blood.

To book an appointment at Brentwood Donor Centre, visit www.blood.co.uk or call 0300 123 23 23.