Two Sidmouth donors who between them have given blood 150 times were commended for their dedication by the NHS.

Malcolm Barratt and Dennis Hartnell received crystal awards at a ceremony at Bickleigh Castle in Tiverton last Wednesday.

The pair were among 41 others from across Devon honoured by NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) for donating blood at least 75 times.

Mr Barratt, said: “I first donated blood at St John Hall in Sidmouth in 1965.

“I was a volunteer ambulance attendant at the time and we were expected to give blood. I have done ever since then.”

Only three per cent of blood donors ever manage to reach 75 donations, and Mr Hartnell explained the incentive he had to start.

“The first time I gave blood I was visiting Hong Kong with the Royal Navy in 1969,” he said.

“We got a bottle of Tiger beer in exchange for a blood donation.”

Jonathan Sewell, Lead Donor Relations Manager at NHSBT, said: “We are so proud of all our blood donors and reaching the 75th or 100th milestone is definitely something to be proud of.

“Taking time to donate your blood is one of the most selfless and generous things you can do to help others, and the effects of blood donation can be seen every day.”