FIVE Canterbury people who between them have donated a staggering 750 pints of blood have been recognised for their achievements.

Robin Barraclough, Ann Cooper, Anne-Marie Cunningham, David Gammon and Peter Jones were all honoured by the National Blood Service at a donor awards ceremony in London.

The five, who have each donated blood 75 times, were presented with crystal plates by guest speaker Julie Henderson, who received a life-saving blood transfusion after an emergency caesarean section two years ago.

Zeeshan Asghar of the National Blood Service, said only three per cent of donors reached their 75th donation, while less than one per cent made it to 100 donations.

“We are proud to reward these silent heroes, who have rolled up their sleeves so many times over the years to help save lives,” she said.

“You never know when you or someone you know will need blood so we really hope more people will follow their example and do their bit to help keep blood stocks healthy.”

To find out how you can become a donor phone the national helpline on 0845 7711711 or go to www.blood.co.uk.