A PREACHER from Halwill Junction has been rewarded for making it to 75 blood donations.
John Hawkins, 57, began giving blood in 1966 when he was 19. He was encouraged to go by his mother who gave 55 donations before retiring as a donor. Since then, Mr Hawkins has given 75 units of blood which could have helped saved the lives of up to 225 people.
Mr Hawkins is well known in the area ? he is preacher at some of the regions churches and is also a trustee and volunteer at the Winsford community centre. He also helps out at youth camps during the summer.
Mr Hawkins was presented with a crystal plate, to commend him for his lifesaving actions, at his blood donation session in Holsworthy last week.
He said: ?As a family we have needed blood in the past. My mother, father and daughters have all needed blood in the past and at least I have done my bit to help. You never know what?s in the future ? you may be the one who needs blood next.
Rachel Yandell of the National Blood Service said: ?Mr Hawkins has repeatedly given up his time to save lives and we cannot thank him enough for his selfless attitude and dedication.
?We would like to congratulate him on achieving his award and thank him for saving so many lives. This award puts him in only 3% of donors.
?We need to collect 9,000 units of blood every day to maintain supplies to hospitals in order that lifesaving surgery and treatments can be carried out. That?s 9000 people like Mr Hawkins, who roll up their sleeves to help save lives.
?However, at the moment only 6% of those who are eligible to give blood actually do so, and we?re hoping that others will follow Mr Hawkins? excellent example.?
Anyone interested in finding out more should call the Donor Helpline on 08457 711 711 or go to http://www.blood.co.uk">www.blood.co.uk