THE New Year is traditionally a time when resolutions are made.

People vow to eat better, exercise more and try to become the best version of themselves. This year, instead of booking a new gym class like many others, why not book a blood donation appointment instead?

NHS Blood and Transplant is asking people in West Devon and East Cornwall to consider spending an hour of their time to donate blood in the New Year.

With each blood donation potentially saving or improving up to three lives, this good deed can help more people than your average resolution.

John Roche, senior marketing co-ordinator at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: 'The beginning of the year is a great time to make changes to your lifestyle.

'And it is the perfect time to give blood. If knowing that your blood is helping to save sick and injured people isn't satisfaction enough, we can also guarantee donors a warm welcome, a refreshing drink and a biscuit when they donate. This year, make a resolution and help us save lives at the same time.'

Every blood donation is vital, but NHS Blood and Transplant particularly needs to ensure supplies of the universal blood group O Rh Negative which is often in short supply as demand is so great. The organisation also needs to ensure supplies of the rarer blood groups A Rh Negative, B Rh Negative and AB Rh Negative as these are also vulnerable to shortfall.

Blood donor sessions will be taking place in Tavistock Methodist Church between 1.15pm and 3.15pm and 4.45pm and 7.15pm on January 13 and at Callington Town Hall on January 26 between 1.15pm and 3.15pm and 4.45pm and 7.15pm.

To book an appointment to donate visit http://www.blood.co.uk">www.blood.co.uk or call 0300 123 2323 to find your nearest session.