NHS Blood and Transplant is looking for new and current donors to book an appointment before heading off on their summer holidays.

Residents are being encouraged to give blood before their holidays to help keep stocks healthy during the summer period.

NHS Blood and Transplant is looking for current and new donors and is holding a session in Sidmouth on Sunday, May 28, from 9.35am to 12.15pm and 1.15pm to 3.45pm at Stowford Community Centre.

The health authority says nearly 6,000 units of blood are used a day for life saving procedures and treating patients with blood disorders.

Karen Healy, senior marketing coordinator at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “Summer is the time of year that everyone looks forward to. The longer days, warmer weather, and summer activities puts everyone in a good mood.

“But with some people jetting off to exotic countries, we need eligible donors in Sidmouth to donate before their holiday, rather than afterwards, to ensure blood stocks stay healthy this summer.

“If you have an appointment to donate, please keep it. If you find you can’t make your appointment, please let us know as soon as possible, so we can free up the appointment for someone else.”

NHS Blood and Transplant is looking for new donors from black communities, donors with the universal blood group O negative, and donors with the valuable Ro blood group.

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