A DEDICATED blood donor from Yelverton, who saved up to 225 lives, was recognised by NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) for his loyalty and commitment, at an awards ceremony earlier this month.

Thomas Palmer received his award in recognition of his 75th blood donation. He was one of 36 blood donors from across Devon to be honoured with a crystal award at the ceremony in Torquay.

Mr Palmer said: 'I wasn't sure how important blood donation was when I started donating in the 1960s. However, as I got older and wiser, I began to realise how important each donation is.'

Also at the ceremony was Melanie Smart from Upottery. Melanie needed 28 pints of blood following the birth of her fourth child and knows, first hand, how important blood donation is.

She said: 'I am so honoured to be invited to this award ceremony and see al these dedicated donors receive their awards. Like me, people that receive blood will never know where it came from but I hope that by being here and sharing my story, these blood donors will know that their efforts are hugely appreciated. '

Out of the four per cent of the eligible population who give blood, only three per cent ever manage to reach 75 donations and just one per cent reach 100.

Anyone wanting to donate for the first time, should be aged between 17 and 65, weighing at least 50kg (7st 12lbs) and in general good health. If you have donated before, you can start again up to your 70th birthday and 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 1232323 or visit http://www.blood.co.uk">www.blood.co.uk