NHS Blood and Transplant is calling for Craven people to step forward and donate blood in the run up to Christmas.

“For thousands of patients across the country, this year’s Must-Have Christmas gift is blood and we’re asking you to help,” said Donna Batty, lead donor relations manager for NHS Blood and Transplant. “Donating doesn’t cost a penny and saves lives, meaning many more people can spend precious time with their families over Christmas.

“This is always an extremely challenging time of year for us as we need to make sure that hospitals are supplied with the blood they need to treat patients over the Christmas holidays. We need donors from all blood groups, but we especially need O Rh negative and B Rh negative to come forward.”

A donor session will take place at St John’s Hall, Settle, on Thursday, December 19, from 2.30pm to 4pm and from 5pm to 7.30pm. For more details visit blood.co.uk or call 0300 123 2323.