RENOWNED West Devon chef Peter Gorton has joined forces with the National Blood Service this summer as it launches its 'Big Summer BBQ' appeal to help save lives.

With thoughts turning to al fresco dining and barbecues, the importance of giving blood and eating an iron rich diet to help maintain healthy blood are being highlighted.

Each year the National Blood Service requires a staggering 234,000 blood donations across the South West, but last year one in 20 people who visited a donor centre to give blood was unable to do so because the haemoglobin in their blood was too low.

Iron is important to keep haemoglobin levels up which is why it is so important to eat foods containing it, like red meat, leafy vegetables like spinach and fruit.

Mr Gorton, co-owner of the Horn of Plenty Country House Hotel and Restaurant at Gulworthy, said: 'I wanted to raise awareness of how important blood is to the national blood bank.

'We need more to help people who are seriously ill. There are a high number of people who cannot give blood because of low haemoglobin levels and that can be improved by eating the right foods.'

Those planning exotic holidays are also being asked to give blood before they go, as people travelling to malaria-risk destinations like Asia and Africa can be prevented from donating for six-months after they return. Regular donors and non-donors are being encouraged to think about giving blood over the summer.

Blood is needed for treating a variety of illnesses and conditions — not just for accidents and emergencies. Even for some whose illness has no cure, a blood transfusion can help to improve their quality of life. The NBS needs to collect almost two million donations each year to make sure that hospitals across England and North Wales are able to receive the life saving treatments they require.

There are blood doning sessions next month at the Jubilee Hall at Chagford (August 11), Delaware Primary School (August 22), North Tawton Primary School (August 26) and sessions are planned for Tavistock, Yelverton and Hatherleigh in September. Contact 18457 711711 or go to http://www.blood.co.uk">www.blood.co.uk to find out about your nearest donation session and book an appointment.